THE PHILALETHES

So sang the old English poet, Robert Herrick, nearly three hundred years ago. This was before Puritanism had put its rather harsh hand upon carol singing and Christmas revelry in the name of a piety that was a little less than wholesome, as we see it now. We cannot but rejoice that the old habit of carol singing, that held such a place in the life of the English people for hundreds of years, is coming back into favor even in our day. It is a custom that seems to have everything to commend it because it encourages us, just as does this old song that we quote from the last of the carol writers, to mingle joy and gladness and overflowing merrymaking with our notes of religious fervor and rejoicing. Many of these old carols, sung back in the fourteenth and fifteenth centuries, will add a note to our Christmas festivities that will be very wholesome and brightening. That our Christmas "revelling," as Herrick calls it, can mingle with its very human happiness strains of holy mirth and true spiritual fervor without loss to either is a truth that it would be very good for us to understand.

----o----

Walter Albert Quincke, 32nd Degree, K.C.C.H., F.P.S.

"MEMORIA IN AETERNA"

THE OCTOBER-NOVEMBER issue of The Philalethes was scarcely off the press when a bereavement occurred world-wide in its import and interest to the Fellows and Members of the Society. It was the sudden death of our beloved President, Walter Albert Quincke, on Monday, October 29, 1951. A formal memorial notice of which was mailed to each of the brethren at a later date.

There doubtless are some of the members of the Society who were unaware of our President's ebbing strength and failing health, so carefully did he conceal these conditions, making the physical sub-servient to the spiritual and intellectual. So long as he was physically able he devoted every waking hour to the interests of the Society and its lofty objectives. Only those of us who saw him from day to day can appreciate the indomitable courage and resolute strength of purpose he displayed in his service to Freemasonry and the cause of Truth.

This unselfish giving of his talents and energy distinguished not only the last months of his life, but the years that preceded them. Six years ago in October 1945 our late brother assumed the presidency of the Society. Due to contingencies arising from the baleful and destructive influence of war, the affairs of the Society were at a low ebb. In fact, I am informed, almost non-existent. Under the capable and careful guidance and untiring effort of Brother Quincke the Society has steadily grown. It has made its influence clearly manifest in the publications of Masonry throughout the world. Its Fellows and Members have become leaders in research and in the dissemination of authentic Masonic information. The Society has sponsored and assisted the formation of groups of interested brethren in the study of Masonry, and through the medium of its publications, THE PHILALETHES and MISCELLANEA, has made available reliable data for their use.

In addition to directing the activities of the Society as its chief administrative officer, Brother Quincke found time to edit its magazine, write special articles and columns for other Craft papers, compose and arrange music, and engage in sundry other pursuits calculated to promote and express the highest thoughts and feelings. Through correspondence, which he carried on continuously, the bond of Masonic union with other countries has been strengthened, and the membership enlarged by the addition of earnest, serious minded Masons here and abroad.

The death of Brother Walter Quincke abruptly terminated his earthly endeavors for his fellowmen and Masonry. His Life, however, typified the ambition of a true and genuine Mason . . . to do something that shall benefit the world . . . "to bless with the glorious gifts of Truth, Light, and Liberty." Thus the memory of Brother Walter's gentle nature, his humor and wit, his love of the beautiful, his thoughtful generosity, his unfailing courtesy, and his ideals of perfection and brotherhood shall continue to influence the lives of those who knew him. His writings shall bring enjoyment to those who seek more light, and they shall live again with him the golden moods and precious thoughts that are preserved in books such as THE PHILALETHES.

As further evidence of his spiritual stature, one needs only to recall the humble and unselfish character of our departed brother; to bring to mind his generous recognition of another's effort and disapprobation of his own, although he was one who strived for complete excellence.

It is therefore fitting that his services to The Philalethes Society, to Freemasonry, and to his fellowmen should receive this recognition. It seems to be the inevitable fate of the man who strives to help the world that praise and gratitude are unexpressed until he slumbers in the grave . . . yet knowing the slow processes by which great good is brought about, "he does not expect to reap as well as sow in a single lifetime."

Harold H. Kinney, F.P.S.

Appended are some of the expressions of sorrow and loss received from Fellows and Members of the Society up to press-time:

"He had a whole-hearted devotion to Freemasonry. We are all the poorer for his going."

Chas. G. Reigner, F.P.S.

Baltimore, Md.

"I am shocked to hear of the death of Walter Quincke. He was a great Masonic leader in the beautiful adventure of Masonic education, and his labors will be sadly missed. I should like to have it made a matter of record that I express my most profound regret for a man and brother for whom I have the highest regard and admiration."

Carl H. Claudy, F.P.S.

Washington, D.C.

"I much regretted to learn of the passing of Brother Walter Quincke . . . His record as a citizen and craftsman shows our Society was fortunate in having one of his excellent qualities as a leader."

Clifford W. Parkin, M.P.S.

No. Hatley, Que., Canada

"We shall miss Brother Quincke exceedingly . . . I shall always value most highly his friendship and his contribution to Masonry and to the Philalethes Society."

Wm. Mosely Brown, F. P.S.

Elon College, N.C.

"Brother Quincke's death was indeed a great loss to Masonry. Our late President was remarkable for his perception of the finer shades of meaning of English words. I was very much surprised to learn that English was not his mother tongue. We shall all be inspired to seek to serve the cause, because of what he was."

Sidney E. Harris, M.P.S.

Woodburn, Oregon

"I had considerable correspondence with our late brother and President Walter Quincke, and had truthfully learned to love him through this medium. I shall personally miss him greatly."

Sherwood V. Westlake, M.P.S.

Bloomfield, N. J.

"I was very sorry, indeed, to hear of Brother Quincke's death.... He will, I know, be greatly missed."

R. J. Meekren, F.P.S.

Stanstead, Que., Canada

"I was greatly shocked and grieved to learn of Brother Quincke's decease . . . Will miss him greatly."

L. B. Blakemore, M.P.S.

Chicago. Illinois

"It is with profound shock that the news came of the passing of Brother Quincke . . . one so far away can offer only sincere condolences, and mere words are inadequate at such times."

Norman C. Dutt, M.P.S.

Berkeley, California

"I am sure that the Masons throughout the world appreciate the fine services rendered by our good brother Walter Quincke, for his works will live long after his passing."

Floran A. Rodgers, M.P.S.

Wichita, Kansas

"While I did not know Brother Quincke personally, I felt that the purposes of the Philalethes Society were in able hands . . . any sincere Freemason seeking Light could not fail to recognize that his efforts were making a very definite impression on a growing number of Masons."

Victor E. Vieira, M.P.S.

Pendleton, Oregon

"While we deeply regret Walter's passing, we can hardly wish him back to the suffering of the latter months of his life . . . We shall greatly miss him, especially in the Philalethes work."

Elbert Bede, F.P.S.

Portland, Oregon

"Word has just reached me that Walter has gone to his eternal rest. I am very sad at the news as I had developed a genuine fondness for him through our correspondence. Walter has done a great deal to vitalize the Society . . . I think all of us should show our respect for him by carrying on the work of the Society in the same manner and with the high standards set by him."

Alphonse Cerza, M.P.S.,

Chicago, Illinois

"Masonry in general and our Philalethes Society in particular suffered a great loss in the death of our beloved President, Walter A. Quincke. The news broke my heart. We have only this consolation, his good deeds, his classic music, and his constructive writings are imperishable and immortal.... His memory will forever remain inscribed and engraved in the hearts of the Fellows and Members of The Philalethes Society."

Rabbi H. Geffen, F.P.S.

Savannah, Georgia

----o----

FREYA, THE SCANDINAVIAN ISIS

By Richard J. Meek, M.P.S., Whitehorse, Y. T., Canada

(Editorial Note. - "Freya, The Scandinavian Isis" was originally given as a lecture by Brother Meek before Whitehorse Lodge No. 46, A.F. & A.M., Whitehorse, Yukon Territory, Canada, during April, 1948, and was later published by the "Masonic Bulletin" of the Grand Lodge A.F. & A M. of British Columbia. Wor. Brother J. Haydn Young published a criticism of this article in the December, 1949, issue of the same publication, with a rebuttal by Brother Meek in June, 1950.)

* * *

ALMOST A YEAR ago to the day, my wife presented me with a baby daughter. When the child was eventually handed to me, I took her, like perhaps millions of fathers throughout the world have taken their first-born, and held her like this: (due guard.) She was very beautiful and we called her Freya. Now Freya is the name of a Norse goddess, appropriately the goddess of sunshine and rain and flowers and beauty. She is one of the triumvirate: Odin, Thor, and Freya. Odin was the wisest of all the gods, and Thor, the god of thunder, the strongest. At the ancient temple of Upsala in Denmark, the three divinities therein were Odin, Thor, and Freya, who were supposed to support the Universe. To the initiated they represent Wisdom, Strength, and Beauty. lt was significant that the column of Freya stood at the south side of the temple where it has ever represented Beauty or Plenty. In our temple the south side is the station of the Junior Warden, and in many Lodges throughout the world, suspended above his chair is a sheaf of wheat, denoting plenty.

We receive most of this symbolism in the First Degree, and most of the symbolism is female. For instance, the first sign we make is known as the due guard - "your left hand supporting the V.S.L., square and compasses, your right hand covering the same," it is the sign often seen given by the Virgin Mary, Isis, and other goddesses, and I offer the theory that it is a sign originating from the natural manner in holding a newborn infant - the first sign in our natural and Masonic lives.

In the lecture of the first Tracing Board we learn that "a Masonic Lodge is supported by three great pillars, Wisdom, Strength, and Beauty; Wisdom to contrive, Strength to support, and Beauty to adorn. Wisdom to conduct us in all our undertakings, Strength to support us under all our difficulties, and Beauty to adorn the inward man." Let us always remember that Freemasonry seeks ever to cultivate the inner qualities inherent in all of us. The column of Beauty depicted as a Corinthian column - the lightest, most ornamental of Greek architecture further represented Hiram Abif who embellished King Solomon's temple with curious and cunning workmanship.

The south side of the Lodge is occupied by the Junior Warden, who represents the sun at its meridian, the day in its full bloom of beauty. It is the Junior Warden who calls the Lodge from labor to refreshment. It is the Junior Warden who closes the Lodge by command of the Worshipful Master, and the Corinthian column on his pedestal is raised to show that the Lodge is passive - without strength.

Masonry, a beautiful system of morality, shows consistency in all its symbolism, and is well illustrated by the entrance of the candidate in darkness, the due guard sign, the several female symbols of the First Degree, the Corinthian column of Beauty, and the brightest character in the annals of Freemasonry, Hiram Abif.

Reply published in the "Masonic Bulletin," Volume XIII, February '50.

* * *

Symbolism of the Senior Warden

An interrogation on an article appearing in December 1949, edition of Masonic Bulletin, by Wor. Brother J. Haydn Young, King David Lodge No. 93, A.F. & A.M.

There are no dogmas relating to Freemasonry and each Master Mason has perfect freedom to interpret its forms and ceremonies as he may desire. There are, however, certain landmarks which would appear to have fundamental symbolism and I was rather disturbed to read in the December issue of the "Masonic Bulletin" a lecture given by Brother R. J. Meek at Whitehorse Lodge No. 46.

In the lecture referred to three statements are made which I find difficult to reconcile with known facts as I understand them. If an error has been made in these facts I think a correction should be made.

First, it is stated that FREYA was one of the triumvirate of the Scandinavian Mythology with Odin and Thor and certain deductions in the lecture are based on this fact. Might I suggest that according to Bullfinch the triumvirate of the Scandinavian Mythology was Odin, Vile and Ve. Thor was Odin's eldest son and Freyr was one of the most celebrated gods, and his sister FREYA was one of the most propitious of the goddesses.

It does not appear sound to link FREYA with the Junior Warden in the South because she never represented the sun at its meridian and cannot be classed as one of the three pillars. Moreover Scandinavian Mythology, in my opinion cannot be tied in with the tenets and principles of Freemasonry.

Second, the statement made in the lecture that the Junior Warden closes the Lodge is surely at variance with the facts and symbolism of his office. The Senior Warden by command of the Worshipful Master closes the Lodge after seeing that every brother has had his just dues as the result of his labors. The remarks made by the Junior Warden after the closing has, I think, a different meaning. To link FREYA, a female goddess with the Junior Warden is surely wrong for reasons which will be readily understood by all initiates.

Third, the statement is further made in the lecture that in many lodges throughout the world a sheaf of wheat, denoting plenty, is suspended above the chair of the Junior Warden. Here again I am at loss to understand this statement for the reason my reading over many years leads me to believe that a picture of or sheaf of wheat is suspended over the chair of the Senior Warden, and rightly so, because he is associated in symbolism with the Moon, always linked as the female principle in nature from which comes the harvest, etc., from which the dues are paid according to the labor expended. In addition the Fellow Craft Degree is associated with the Senior Warden and the secret word of this Degree means "plenty" and is depicted by a sheaf of corn near a water ford.

I wonder if Brother Meek has not been confused in his references and my only desire is to point out the apparent error in his deductions for the benefit of some of the younger students of Freemasonry who read the "Masonic Bulletin" with so much interest.

It is impossible in public print to say many things one has in mind in this matter but might I close with a brief lead as to one of my deductions from the personality of the Senior Warden.

In the journey through life, as the shadows lengthen and the sun sets in the West, the Master Mason approaches the Senior Warden to receive at his hands from the abundance of his plenty the just dues for the labor he has made in building the Temple. May it be that each and all of us will so labor in building this Temple that we shall earn a rich reward at the hands of the Senior Warden when the Lodge is closed.

My humble apology goes to Brother Meek in feeling constrained to disagree with the contents of his lecture referred to.

Reply in "Masonic Bulletins," Vol. XIII, June, 1950.

Wor. Brother J. Haydn Young, in his learned objection appearing in February's "Masonic Bulletin" to my lecture in the December issue of the Bulletin, caused me some misgivings, but having pursued the subject vigorously, I now feel more confident in replying to my scholarly brother.

First, I still maintain that Freya is one of the Scandinavian triumvirate. L.C. Aastrup, Professor Emeritus of History, Vejle, Denmark, wrote in reply to my query: (translation):

"Freya was the most beautiful of the goddesses, she came from Vanerne, another race of people who fought continual wars with Aserne. At a peace conference she together with her father Njord and her brother Frej were given over as hostages to Aserne and were adopted by them into their circle, they promoted Freya to Goddess of Love. It is in honor to Freya that women of the upper class in Scandinavia are called Fruer (Dame) . . . Vile and Ve are Odin's brothers."

Dr. Albert Mackey, in his Encyclopedia of Freemasonry, article "Frey or Freia" states: "The column of Beauty or Plenty, originally emblematic of Frey is situated on the South side of the Lodge. A Masonic symbol - a sheaf of wheat - always suspended above that station, denoted plenteousness. Freia may also be comparatively described as the Scandinavian Isis."

Albert Pike in his monumental "Morals and Dogma," page 552 says that the trinity is typified by the Scandinavians ". . . by Odin, Frea, and Thor."

With all due respect to Brother Young, I have never read of Bullfinch being quoted as a Masonic authority, though his "Mythology" may be conceded as a learned and erudite work: Surely Mackey or Pike would be a more apposite authority than Bullfinch.

Brother T. D. Blackburn, Victoria, writes on this subject as follows: "In the 18th century (about 1745) the Pass Words were by mistake reversed. The Pass Word that is now given to the Fellow Craft was given to an Entered Apprentice and the Pass Word that is now given to an Entered Apprentice was given to a Fellow Craft.

"In the French and Dutch Lodges, and in the Dutch Lodges of South Africa, they still follow the old custom; consequently the Entered Apprentices and Fellow Crafts of Dutch Lodges in South Africa are forbidden to enter English Lodges until they become Master Masons. Keeping this change of Pass Words in mind, we can see the significance of the Pass Word that was formerly given to an Entered Apprentice to enable him to gain admittance to the Fellow Craft Lodge. In the First Degree we saw that the Junior Warden represented the Corinthian pillar, or the female element in nature, or God as the Preserver, whose emblems in India and other parts of the world are represented by Corn and Wine . . . I. personally, have not the slightest doubt that it is safe to link the Scandinavian Freya, the Egyptian Isis, Ceres, Astarte, etc., with the Junior Warden and the Corinthian Column."

The only reference I can find to support Brother Blackburn's statement concerning the reversal of the Pass Words is "Masonry Dissected," an expose by Samuel Prichard, published in 1730, but some of which seems to have been accepted by Preston, author of "Illustrations of Masonry."

Brother Young's observation that the Lodge is closed by the Senior Warden by command of the Worshipful Master, I was ready to concede. However, Brother R. Baker Harris, Librarian of the Supreme Council A.A.S.R., Southern Jurisdiction, Washington, D.C., very kindly gave me his personal observations on this point. He says: "The ritual for opening and closing the Lodge varies in our Grand Jurisdictions in this country. Our District of Columbia practice, and most of the others with which I am familiar, is that the Worshipful Master only (or a qualified Brother acting as Worshipful Master) may open or close the Lodge. It is specific that the Worshipful Master is assisted by the Senior Warden and Junior Warden (one transmitting and the other proclaiming the order); but in the Symbolic Lodges in this jurisdiction, only the Worshipful Master may Open and Close. Your statement in this connection would doubtless apply in some localities, and not in others; but you could reword it in such a way as to cover this circumstance."

This same authority commented on Brother Young's third point of variance with me, i.e., my statement that a sheaf of wheat is often suspended over the chair of the Junior Warden. Brother Harris states: "The use of the symbol of a sheaf of wheat representing Plenty is used in our symbolic work in this jurisdiction on only one occasion, and then in the South, at the station of the Junior Warden as you have stated. It has no part in the work at the station of the Senior Warden. One has to make allowances for these variations in different jurisdictions. The highlights are universally similar, but on minor points of symbolism and ritual there is considerable variation as you know."

In conclusion may I express my thanks to Brother Young for his constrained and tactful opposition to my statements, for even though I may disagree with him in greater part, he has caused me some very searching moments. His objection has made me realize that each of us must approach the subject of Masonry with a spirit of humility and modesty.

"There lives more faith in honest doubt,

Believe me, than in half the creeds."

----o----

THE SEVEN LIBERAL ARTS AND SCIENCES

By Frederick Thomas Parker, M.P.S.,

Montreal, Quebec, Canada

ASTRONOMY

FROM a consideration of geometry - earth measurement - and of the laws which govern the natural forces of this globe which we inhabit, we almost insensibly find ourselves lifted to the realm of astronomy, that science which deals with these shining worlds which surround us, and which for countless years have moved in their majestic orbits in obedience to some unerring and immutable law, these spangled heavens, this awe-inspiring frame.

Scores of centuries ago, the Egyptians hailed with thankful joy the annual rising of Sirius, once of the fabled hounds of Orion, for year after year as Sirius appeared at the dawn of the summer solstice, mingling its light with that of Ra, the sun, did the Nile regularly overflow its banks to flood the parched and thirsty land.

Chinese records tell us of the fate of two official astronomers for neglecting to perform the rites customary during the eclipse of the sun, in 2316 B.C.

In Babylon, the heavens were studied as far back as 3800 B.C. Certainly they were classified a thousand years later, and that ancient civilization also divided the year into months and weeks, the day into hours and minutes as we do now.

The Greeks, who have bequeathed us not only the names of so many of the constellations but numerous interesting legends concerning them, made forward strides in this science of the stars.

Aristarchus tried to compare the relative distance of the sun and the moon. Eratosthenes successfully estimated the breadth of the earth. Pythagoras conceived of the earth, hitherto regarded as a flat disc, as a globe, poised in space, and developed the theory of the music of the spheres, those morning stars that sang together; and Hipparchus classified some 1,080 of them into the six degrees of brightness.

All through the years men, marvelling, tried to postulate some law which would explain these heavens to them, which would account for the regular, unaltering appearance of those fabled lights.

It was not until the time of Copernicus, early in the sixteenth century, that the knowledge of the actual motions of the heavens really began. He it was who first determined that the earth rotated on an axis directed around the celestial pole and, together with the planets, regularly revolved around the sun, which he thought it was stationary.

Of the contributions of Copernicus, of Kepler, and of Galileo, much could be said, but it was left to Newton to recognize the nature of this force which governs the movement of the planets; for Newton, by strict numerical comparisons, identified terrestrial gravity with the mutual attraction of the heavenly bodies and the following of its mechanical consequences throughout the solar system.

Governing and controlling the regular movement of these revolving planets and their satellites then is one unchanging and unchangeable and demonstrable law.

The ritual so briefly states that "numberless worlds are around us." The ancient classification of slightly over a thousand stars has long since been dwarfed almost into insignificance. The two inch telescopes of Newton's day are replaced by others fifty times as wide, which reveal over a thousand million stars which roll through an expanse so vast as to be almost beyond our comprehension, for some of the now visible nebulae of Pegasus are one hundred million light years away.

Man, exercising his ingenuity, and the laws of mathematics and of physics, and of chemistry, which he increasingly understands, has not only brought multitudes of vast worlds into his vision, measured their distance from the earth, ascertained the speed at which their light travels, but, even from this remote distance, he has studied their relative brilliance, weighed them, measured them, learned of what matter they are composed, and estimated their various temperatures.

And, through all this long journey of discovery of himself, of his own nature, and of the wonders of earth and sky, man has

". . . felt a Presence that disturbs 'him' with the joy of elevated thought, a sensible sublime of

Something far more deeply interfused,

Whose dwelling is the light of setting suns,

And the round ocean, and the living air,

And the blue sky, and in the mind of man;

A motion and a spirit that impels

All thinking things, all objects of all thought,

And rolls through all things."

Well may the Fellowcraft be directed to give them his earnest consideration! For they guide him upward into the presence of the Grand Geometrician of the Universe, into the presence of an Infinity who grows into sublime grandeur as the mind of man increasingly comprehends the beauty of the laws which unerringly control all that the Divine Architect has planned.

----o----

LET US BE EXPLICIT

By Gabriel Ruscitti, M.P.S.,

Berkeley, California

HOW OFTEN have you heard this ambiguous statement uttered in a Blue Lodge? "You get out of Masonry what you put into it." How often have you attended your own lodge or visited another when conferring third degrees on a candidate, and witnessed some officer or Past Master who has been called upon to say a few words, rise to his feet and start his speech by directing the above-quoted stereotyped phrase to the candidate?

My observation has been that once this oft-repeated phrase is uttered by the speaker, he drops the subject it involves as he would a hot potato, thus indicating the subject is too hot for him to handle, meaning of course that he knows not whereof he speaks. It appears that for want of something to say that will impress the candidate the speaker grasps at, and injects, this "prop" phrase, which he has heard constantly repeated, and thus accepted as the appropriate thing to say on such an occasion. Obviously, he does not realize that the phrase suggests an explanation which the candidate expects and to which he is entitled. Moreover, by denying the candidate an elaboration on this phrase, he is not conforming to, nor abiding by, the principles established by Freemasonry.

As Masons, we are obligated to enlighten the Brethren and not confuse them with ambiguous statements. The candidate is, at this time, unfamiliar with Freemasonry. His Masonic education is just beginning. He cannot properly determine what is meant by that statement. His interpretation is bound to be wrong, and as a consequence, he will start on the Masonic road on the wrong foot, always out of step with our pretensions, unless some brother takes a personal interest in him and straightens him out.

While we are charged not to deviate from our established customs, this restriction is imposed solely upon the Lodge procedure and our actions therein. This should be clear, as the word custom pertains to action and is a form of action characteristically repeated in like circumstances. For obvious reasons, the work of the officers and our ritual must be rendered verbatim. Here, however, the restrictions stop. There is no Masonic law prohibiting the intelligent use of one's own words when speaking for the good of Masonry. Let us, therefore, be explicit. If we have something to say, let us say it with clarity and to a conclusion.

----o----

It is my firm conviction that it would be better for the Fraternity to suffer for lack of qualified members, than to stand deterioration thru a membership no matter how large. It should never, however, become necessary to; face either of these alternatives. In every age and country there are good men and true, who, seeking truth and light will knock at our door. But the slender thread which guides them to the outer door of the temple must come from the spiritual life of the Master Mason within.

- Godfried H. Lohrli, M.P.S.

----o----

THE SQUARE, MASONIC SYMBOL

By - Elbert Bede, F.P.S.,

Portland, Oregon

THE SQUARE occupies an important place as an implement of Freemasonry. In all lodges it is a Great Light. In many jurisdictions, including Oregon, it is one of the Immovable Jewels because of being the Jewel of the Master. As a Symbol it certainly has as many interpretations as any Symbol. As an emblem of Freemasonry it is recognized by millions who have never been inside a Masonic Lodge and know nothing of Masonic rituals.

Because of its antiquity, the Square is peculiarly fitted for the part it plays in Freemasonry, for the origin of the Square as a geometric figure is as legendary as the birth of Freemasonry, or more so.

One of the most potent arguments used by those who hold that a Freemasonry, similar to that which we have today, with some of today's due-guards and penal signs, was known to the earliest civilizations, is that our Symbols are known to have existed in prehistoric times, and quite likely were used to teach some of the same lessons which we today derive from them. It is not difficult to produce evidence that the Square was an emblem of morality long before the days of King Solomon. Certainly the great Temple which in all its beauty crowned Moriah's Mounts could not have been erected had not the principles of the Square and its angle of 90 degrees been well known to the architects who constructed what became the most glamorous edifice of all ages. The great stones and timbers, certainly could not have been brought to Jerusalem hewn and squared and ready to be fitted into position, except through the application of the principles of the Square. No great building ever has been erected without the application of those principles.

As no edifice may approach architectural perfection without use of the principles of the geometric square, so no man may approach perfection in Freemasonry without application of the principles of the Symbolic Square.

The Square, with its angle of 90 degrees, is contained within every perfect circle, and its perfection is geometrically proved by a problem performed within the circle. The Freemason moves within the circle of his brethren. Whether or not he is "on the square" is proved by his actions within that circle.

To the ancients, the Square symbolically represented the earth while the circle represented heaven. It is fitting then that the Square should be a principal Symbol of a great body of earthly beings and that its perfection should be proved by a problem within the ancient Symbol of Heaven.

The Square is a perfect figure. We, as Freemasons, are expected to "act upon the Square," yet no one of us has ever reached or may hope to reach the perfection of that Symbol. Perfection is not for humans, but we who employ the symbolic square in the design of our daily lives have, what may seem to some, an advantage over those who use the geometric Square in erecting great edifices. No building would be acceptable if the principles of the Square had been even slightly disregarded in its construction. On the other hand we imperfect mortals may deviate slightly from the principles of the Square of Morality and Virtue, and concealing our faults still walk uprightly before the world. However, if we wish to be hereafter a part of that spiritual building, not erected by hands, eternal in the heavens, it is not enough to merely walk uprightly before the world.

The Square, Great Light, Jewel and Symbol of Freemasonry, contains within its 90 degrees everything necessary to guide us to that perk action for which we should strive here, and which we may hope to attain in our home over there.

----o----

ASTRONOMY OR ASTROLOGY ?

By Clifford W. Parkin, M.P.S.,

North Hatley, Quebec, Canada

IN THE ARTICLE "Astronomy and Masonry" appearing in the October-November issue of Philalethes, Wor. Brother George B. Clarke seems to have confused these two subjects. He recognizes that it is the former which is prominently connected with our ritual, but assumes that the intent is still to include the theories of the latter. In my opinion the article should have been captioned "Astrology and Masonry" as it is such teachings that the writer seeks to link up with the tenets of our Order. Much confusion still exists as to these two subjects being interrelated and of equal importance. Both concern the stars, planets and other celestial bodies, but they have long since been regarded as entirely separate in effect.

The New Oxford Dictionary defines Astronomy as the "Science of the Heavenly Bodies," the word being formed from the Greek astron, a star, and memo, arrange, that is: the arrangement of the stars. Astrology is from the same root with the suffix of logy, meaning the study or knowledge of. Astrology is more definitely described in Chambers Etymological Dictionary as "the infant stage of the science of the stars, now called Astronomy." It further states that Astrology was chiefly concerned in foretelling events from the position of the heavenly bodies.

This is the subject with which Brother Clarke deals by viewing the Universe, as did the lonely shepherd (presumably on the Chaldean hills), as nightly lit by immense groups of stars which his fanciful imagination outlined as the animals and objects with which he was acquainted. These were divided into the then popular number of twelve zones and formed what is still known as the Zodiacal system, giving us our present twelve calendar months. Each was named and subsequently known by its Latin equivalent such as Aries, the Ram, Taurus, the Bull, etc. The whole was viewed as a belt in the sky beyond which the sun, moon, and major planets did not pass.

It must be remembered that until Copernicus advanced his theory of the Solar System in the 16th century, man knew very little of objects outside of our Earth. In the story of Creation told in Genesis it was imagined that our little sphere was the center of the Universe, and the creation of the stars is mentioned in a very casual manner as if they were an auxiliary of the Earth. The ancients regarded then as placed picturesquely in the sky, probably as; nightly illumination for mankind. No one could have imagined that had it been possible to view them from another location in the Universe, they would have appeared as totally different groups. Each of these objects is separated from the others by vast distance whereas the ancients probably regarded them as more or less affixed to the background of the sky. Some even thought they were holes in the sky letting through heavenly light for the earth.

On this structural supposition that the stars were really inclusive groups was built the theory of classification of astral influences on mankind. Planets were supposed to determine the characteristics of individual persons, according as to whether they were in the ascendency or otherwise. All persons born under the sign of Aquarius, for instance, were supposed to be of a certain temperament, possessing certain virtues or vices. Now our Masonic-Astrologer brother advances the premise that because the Sun is supposed to have entered the zone of a fancied Ram or Bull, Abraham or Moses were induced to offer a sacrificial animal in keeping with the change. To a move in position of our solar orb into another "house", or section of the celestial belt, is attributed the association of fish with the teachings and personality of Jesus Christ. We are warned to anticipate other startling changes when another period elapses.

The assertions made are based on two hypotheses, viz:

1. That the characteristics of fancied representations seen in the groups of stars are reproduced in actual events on this Earth.

2. That the Sun moves in an orbit in similar manner as do the planets.

I submit that the first is speculation of extreme nature, and the second is contrary to Astronomical knowledge. An immediate distinction must therefore be made between the claims of Astrology and the Science of Astronomy, which latter has long since emerged from any association with the former and established itself as a subject of serious study. While there are still some people who have a superstitious reverence for beliefs of a past age, and who persist in upholding long discarded theories (mainly for their own satisfaction), yet the constant search for Truth must always cause us to substitute reason for sentiment.

It is Astronomy which forms one of the Seven Liberal Arts and Sciences which we as Masons are urged to study. That is the real knowledge of the stars by which we can fully comprehend the wonderful works of the G.A.O.T.U. Particularly in recent decades, scientists aided by marvelous new devices have made astounding discoveries in this fascinating field of research. Astronomy is a science in which even the layman can learn much by observing greatly and studying keenly. The mind that can grasp its principles and ponder deeply on its potentialities will begin to understand the power and immensity of the Creator.

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"To so live in the midst of this mystery-haunted world, to so work among the winged days that little children may be happier, youth more joyous, manhood more clean, and old age less lonely; to so live that men will hate less and love more, be honorable in public dealings as in private acts, create more than destroy; to so live that the Great Kingdom of Brotherhood may be brought near and man be bound closer to man . . . that is to be a Mason!" - "Symbolical Masonry," by Harry L. Haywood, F.P.S.

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"While we hold a view of the world very unlike that held by our ancient brethren - knowing it to be round, not flat and square - yet their insight is still true; the whole idea being that man must imitate the order of the world in which he lives. That is also our dream and design, our labor and worship. Any man has a right to build a house to suit himself; but if he expects it to stand and be a shelter of his home, he must obey certain laws of physics in building it. By as much as he obeys those laws his home will stand; if he disobeys, no. Nor is it otherwise with the moral laws, which rule the building of character. If the laws of architecture are moral laws, as Ruskin taught us, just so moral principles are laws of spiritual architecture. In short the basic idea of Masonry is that moral order, like the physical world, is a realm of law, order and beauty, where obedience is liberty and stability.

Upon this fact Masonry erects its noble and beautiful allegory of human life in all its varied aspects; the Lodge a symbol of the world in which man lives on a checkerboard of nights and days, joys and sorrows - over-arched by the sky, at its center an Altar of obligation and prayer. By the same sign, initiation is our birth from the darkness of prenatal gloom into the light of moral and spiritual faith, out of a merely physical into a human moral order; into a new environment with a new body of motive and experience. its meaning to him, unveiling its plan of life, its purpose, its promise of a Temple of Brotherhood, into which he may build his life and thought and aspiration, so that whatever immortality this human world shall have his character and personality shall have a share of it." - Joseph Fort Newton in "The Religion of Masonry."

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A Masonic Prayer For Peace

"Whatsoever ye ask in prayer, believing, we shall receive." Matt. 21:22

SUPREME Ruler of the Universe, we most reverentIy invoke Thy blessing in these troubled times. All about us we see evidences of men abandoning the basic Faith of their Fathers; we see new gods placed in the temples of everyday life; we see a discarding of the moral principles that have proven their worth throughout the ages. About us everywhere we see people living in fear, shackled with tension and cringing from frayed nerves. Thy children are searching for peace of mind and serenity of soul, but find neither in the market place, the palaces of pleasure, or the ways of godlessness.

Grant that all men may again plant in their hearts the Cardinal Virtues of Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth. May men everywhere follow the precepts of Freemasonry and have the strength, the courage, and the wisdom to do Thy Divine Will; to meet upon the level of equality, to live by the plumb-line of virtue, and act always on the square. Grant, Oh Lord, that liberty and equal opportunity may exist in all lands and that the dignity of the individual be recognized everywhere. May the Temples of Freemasonry throughout the world ever be open to give unto all men the spiritual strength to meet the vital problems of the hour, to the betterment of all men and the glory of Thy Holy Name.

Almighty Father, Thou who understandest our thoughts afar off, knowest that individual Masons belong to various creeds, yet each and everyone believes in Thee; that all believe in the Fatherhood of God and Brotherhood of Man; that Holy Script is the rule and guide of their conduct; that though Masons hold various political beliefs, yet they believe in equal treatment for all before the law, and Thou knowest that these fundamental beliefs make for complete Harmony.

Inspire us, therefore, Gracious Father to instill these gentle precepts of Freemasonry in the hearts of all men, so that Brotherly Love may prevail throughout the World. Cast Thou the Light of Thy Wisdom on our labors in the quarries of the Craft, that we may the better shape the stones of Faith, Hope, and Charity for the erection of that house not made with hands, Eternal in the Heavens.

So Mote It Be.

- A. Cerza, M.P.S.

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"One of the many joys of the gentle philosophy of Freemasonry is the total absence of threat, punishment, or catalog of errors to be avoided. Not in the Ancient Craft are there "seven deadly sins" or "venial sins" or "mortal sins." Not in her instructions is "thou shalt not" except in obligations where it is "I will not." Like all else in Freemasonry, assuming these promises is Voluntary and not made a mandate. Freemasonry's commands are happy commands; she considers neither initiates nor members as sinners, erring humans, decadent characters. She has light to see by, not dark pits in which feet may stray and a traveler fall. - Short Talk Bulletin "Seven Cardinal Virtues," Masonic Service Association.

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THE PHILALETHES SOCIETY NEWS

THE PHILALETHES: December 1351; Volume 6, Number 8, - Harold H. Kinney, F.P.S., Editor. COPYRIGHT 1951, by the Philalethes Society, 352 Sycamore Road, Santa Monica, California. Publication schedule: Eight (8) issues per year or volume: January, February, March, May (April-May); July (June-July); September (August-September); November (October-November); and December.

No advertising in any form solicited or accepted.

When requesting a change of address, please give the old as well as the new address, including your postal, zone number, if you have such.

Annual subscription, in the United States of America, $3.00; elsewhere $4.00, payable in advance. "The Philalethes" is the official publication of the Philalethes Society, formed solely for independent thinkers. All articles appearing in its columns express the ideas and opinions of their contributors only, and in no way need they express the opinion of the Society.

All communications should be addressed to the Society.

* * *

It is with some perturbation that your editor assumes the responsibility for the publishing of the Society's review. He is especially filled with misgivings as to his capabilities, and justly so, following so closely in the footsteps of one who did such an outstanding piece of work.

He is further conscious of his trust and obligation to accomplish work that is praiseworthy by the knowledge that he is answerable to the members of a Society dedicated to education and enlightenment, and the roster of which scintillates with the names of the foremost writers, editors, publishers, and thinkers of our noble craft.

Although he assumes the office with a sense of utmost humility, he is encouraged and sustained by the fact that he received several months of training under Brother Quincke's direction; that he supports and will endeavor to maintain the ideals and high standards that have characterized this publication; that he is assured of the splendid cooperation and support of those who share an interest in the purposes of the Society, who nourish in their hearts the lofty aspirations of our Craft for the improvement of mankind, and are so eminently qualified to help carry out the ideals we have invoked for our activities.

Above all other reasons he is confident of the future, for he knows that the cause is "good", and that our all-wise, all-powerful Heavenly Father makes "all things work together for good."

Harold H. Kinney, F.P.S.

Editor

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TIME

"Dost thou love life? Then do not squander time, for that is the stuff life is made of."

Time is the one thing we possess. Our success depends upon our use of it. Odd moments seem trivial when in reality they are endowed with opportunity and power. What a man does with his odd moments is not only apt to bring him profit, but will increase his mental activity and add to his proficiency in craftsmanship and effort of every kind.

Every minute saved by making it useful and profitable is so much added to life and its possibilities.

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ANNOUNCEMENT AND APPOINTMENT

TO THE FELLOWS AND MEMBERS:

The sudden and untimely passing of our brother and editor, Walter A. Quincke, has precipitated and made urgently necessary an immediate action on the part of your Executive Committee to assure that there will be no cessation of the Masonic Educational Program established by The Philalethes Society several years ago. All important in this plan for spreading Masonic knowledge is the publication of the Philalethes magazine.

Almost coincidental with the beginning of the year 1951, Harold H. Kinney, a member of the Society, began assisting our late Brother Walter with the many duties that were already taxing his waning strength. On March 29th, Brother Quincke advised the Fellows of the Society and the Members of the Executive Committee that he had appointed Brother Kinney "to act as my personal representative pertaining to Society and personal matters, safeguarding my strength in the present emergency (illness)."

In the June-July issue of Philalethes his name appeared on the masthead as an Associate Editor.

From that time on during the many months Brother Quincke was hospitalized and making his valiant fight for life, Brother Kinney edited the last several issues of The Philalethes and looked after such correspondence as was necessary.

In recognition for his services and able assistance his name was proposed for a Fellowship in the Society by Harold Van Buren Voorhis. F.P.S., and his elevation to the Immortal Forty was also sponsored by the writer. Subsequently, at a meeting of the Executive Committee held a week before the death of our late President, Harold Hile Kinney, M.P.S., was elected to become a Fellow of the Society.

It was the expressed desire of Brother Walter Quincke that our newly made Fellow should continue with his work on the Society's review, and at my request since Walter's death he has signified his willingness to do so.

Therefore the name of Harold H. Kinney, F.P.S., appears for the first time on the masthead of the December issue as Editor of The Philalethes.

Aside from the interest and enthusiasm he has shown, his qualifications for the position and work he is assuming are briefly as follows:

Vital

Age - 57, the eldest son of a Methodist minister, Editor, and Publisher. Married, living with his wife and one son in Santa Monica, California.

Schooling and Education

Public Schools of Pennsylvania and California. Attended University of Southern California, College of Liberal Arts preparatory to a career in journalism. Subsequently U.S.C. Law School

Church Affiliation '

Methodist Episcopal.

Business

On return from service in U.S. Army, World War I, for 15 years engaged in different phases of oil business, particularly property management and public relations. For the past 15 years manufacturer of electric musical instruments, and executive officer of the corporation.

Masonic

Raised 30 years ago in Ocean Park Lodge No. 369, F. & A. M., Santa Monica, California. Master of the same lodge in 1946; Past High Priest of Santa Monica Bay Chapter No. 97, R.A.M.; at present Conductor of Council, Alpha Council No. 39, R. & S.M., Inglewood, California; Class Lecturer of the Council for the past three years; Generalissimo of Santa Monica Bay Commandery No. 61, K.T.; 32d A. & A. S.R., Valley of Long Beach, California. In addition Forking in the several bodies of the York and Scottish Rites, is Class Leader of the Edward B. Spencer Masonic Study Club which he formed.

In succeeding Brother Quincke in the office of Editor, Harold will assume a most difficult responsibility, and I therefore urge the fullest cooperation and assistance from the Members and Fellows.

Address all communications to Harold H. Kinney, F.P.S., 352 Sycamore Road, Santa Monica, California. Let us know in what way you can help, whether writing, corresponding, interpreting, or study club activity. Anything you may do will be appreciated.

Of course we want and need members, subscribers, and donations in order to enlarge and strengthen the work and structure of our Society. The work must go on. It was the dream of Brother Walter Quincke that the Society would some day become a most potent influence for good. That hope, in a measure, was accomplished under his direction. However, his labors being terminated with the "Temple" uncompleted, we must pick up the tools he has relinquished and resume our labors toward the building of a Temple of Universal Brotherhood, adorned by the Beauty of fraternal Love and Truth.

Allister J. McKowen, F.P.S. International Secy. - Treas.

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"Masonry is action and not inertness. It requires its initiates to work, actively and earnestly, for the benefit of their brethren, their country, and mankind. It is the patron of the oppressed, as it is the comforter and consoler of the unfortunate and wretched. It seems to it a worthier honor to be the instrument of advancement and reform, than to enjoy all that rank and office and lofty titles can bestow. It is the advocate of the common people in those things which concern the best interests of mankind. It hates insolent power and imprudent usurpation. It pities the poor, the sorrowing, the disconsolate; it endeavors to raise and improve the ignorant, the sunken and the degraded.

Its fidelity to its mission will be accurately evidenced, by the extent of the efforts it employs, and the means it sets on foot to improve the people at large and to better their condition; chiefest of which, within its reach, is to aid the education of the children of the poor. An intelligent people informed of its rights, will soon come to know its power, and cannot long be oppressed; but if there be not a sound and virtuous populace, the elaborate ornaments at the top of the pyramid of society will be a wretched compensation for the want of solidity at the base. - Albert Pike in "Morals and Dogma."

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Guard Your Mental Door

Why do you lock the door of your house? For security, and also to exclude intruders. You do not admit objectionable and unlovely people.

But how about the door of your mind? Is it open to all the varying thoughts that assail it from every side? Are you as discriminating here as you are with the door of your house?

Since you will be constantly bombarded by thoughts of good, bad, and doubtful character, you would be well-advised to give a peremptory challenge to them before giving them hospitality.

Obviously you should be receptive to the best thoughts, but how about negative and evil thoughts that often unexpectedly intrude?

You have the power to expel such thoughts, and your best course will be to do this promptly. Don't dally with an undesirable thought but dismiss it summarily.

It is not easy to keep the mind inviolate, but if you con do it even approximately you will greatly benefit. Much will depend upon your habitual mental attitude toward life.

Begin today to do some mental stock-taking. Analyze your thoughts for the post hour. Were they, on the whole, constructive or destructive, positive or negative, productive or worthless? Frankly examine them and resolve to stand porter at the door of your mind.

In daily complexities of life our thought-stream is constantly being altered and influenced by things happening to us, often without our being fully aware of it. But we can learn to control our thought stream through vigilance.

Refuse to give allegiance to undesirable thoughts and they will gradually disappear - more and more. As you dwell upon constructive thoughts, they will tend to dominate your mind to the exclusion of opposite thoughts.

It is said that the most important victory will be won in the realm of your mind, hence the vital importance of guarding it.

Do not entertain thoughts that depress you, or in any way retard your best progress. By changing your thoughts you can be liberated from constricting fears. By substituting constructive ideas for destructive ideas, you can uplift yourself into a mental attitude of hopeful expectancy.