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E D U C AT I O N
by Seth Anthony, 32°, HGA Valley of Reading
In the Blue Lodge, we are taught that man is a rough ashlar.
Regardless of the stock from which he may hail, he has flaws and imperfections. Through the allegorical use of the builder's tools, he may correct the imperfections found in his character. The life's work of a Mason is to hew his stone from rough to smooth, better fitting it for the spiritual temple that comes in the afterlife.
While this concept is readily accepted and easy to follow, it’s not terribly realistic. Men err. In an attempt to correct one flaw in our stone, we may apply our tools incorrectly, thereby creating a larger blemish than the one we were originally trying to clean. At its heart, this is the important lesson that the 10th degree of the Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite teaches: even the greatest and most talented workman can make a mistake. He may be the most skilled in the use of his tools, but hubris, impatience, and neglect can lead him to create a previously unfounded flaw in his character.
his vows to the one living and true God. Solomon stands perilously close to committing idolatry because of a woman.
The 10th degree follows Solomon, who having been established on the throne of Israel and long reigned in wisdom and glory, has made a profound mistake. His marriages to several wives have become the butt of jokes amongst his sons and subjects, leaving Solomon weakened in the world and debased in character. But, it is his marriage to the Pharaoh’s daughter that causes the most consternation. In an effort to win her favor and the favor of her family, Solomon authorizes the construction of an altar to her deities, forgetting
But not everyone is unhappy with the situation. Zadok, ever a loyal subject, defends the King’s methods. He cites that the world is peaceful and that Israel has entered a golden age under his rule. Who are the meek to question the will of the mighty, especially when it appears to be working? Nathan, however, is not convinced, citing an important Bible verse that is at the heart of this allegory:
Fall 2023
In an attempt to correct one flaw in our stone, we may apply our tools incorrectly, thereby creating a larger blemish than the one we were originally trying to clean.
“It makes no difference how high a man might rise as a leader if he does not obey
the commandments of the Lord his God; and then fails to make atonement for his transgressions, and receive absolution from the Lord; then his punishment shall be swift and certain, and shall follow him all of the remaining days of his life, even unto his children and his children’s children.” With these conflicting views in mind, Zadok and Nathan ask for an audience with Solomon and attempt to provide wise counsel. Of course, Solomon, unused to being questioned, does not take kindly to their insinuations. Solomon furthermore asks them why they had failed to stop him before he made a mistake. The conversation turns ugly with the King ordering the advisors to be seized, and he nearly puts them to death. But, at the last moment, an Oracle appears to Solomon, admonishing him not to justify his actions to lesser men. No, Solomon need only make amends with one being, God, who is not pleased with his servant. The degree goes on to depict the demise of the King and his regret at not having followed the commandments given by the Lord. But, for the purpose of this analysis,
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