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HAUTS GRADES ACADEMY: Justice for All
by Scott Mark, 32° Valley of Pittsburgh
The 21st degree, Patriarch Noachite, focuses on the Core Value of Justice. It is one of only two degrees (along with the 30th degree) that focus solely on this Core Value. Although the degree focuses on justice, it reflects several core behaviors which are important for every Mason to demonstrate.
Despite our best intentions, human interactions sometimes result in disputes and conflict. As a result, men are forced to seek relief and enlightenment through established tribunal boards. The drama in this degree demonstrates cases brought before the Grand Chapter of the Patriarch Noachites—a secret society conducting a Vehmic court. This drama is based on the actual “secret” court system that formed in Westphalia, Germany in the Middle Ages. Interestingly, while these courts were considered “proto-vigilante” with respect to the formal judicial system, they were officially granted jurisdiction from the Holy Roman Emperor which included the capacity to pronounce capital punishment. Although this is peripheral to the primary learning in the degree, the background deals with the same concept of separation of church and state which is introduced in the 27th degree. Here, the message is centered on the concept of equal justice under the law. The drama reminds us to “Let Justice be done though the Heavens should fall.”
The drama depicts an esteemed Mason, the Count Reinfred, who is found to have behaved dishonorably in a business dealing. The issue is brought to the Noachite tribunal for redress and justice. A key point that is being stressed is that no one is above the law. The drama points out that Count Reinfred is known to be a noble person with a “distinguished service to the Order.” He is a knight who is “fearless and without reproach.” Great diligence is taken to clarify that the Count represents a person of the highest esteem. This is to emphasize the clear point that is made at the end of the drama which is that “in the sight of God, all men are equal.” No one is so high or mighty that he shall plunder or oppress the weak with impunity. It is also important to note that the Count is a Mason. The obvious point being that “Freemasonry is not a shield for evildoing,” and that “the pillar of Justice is one of the chief supports of our Fraternity.”
On a personal level, I selected this degree for review as I strongly support the Core Value of Justice. We are continually challenged to fight against systemic injustice to ensure equality for all. This includes not only equal justice under the law but also access to justice. Both imperatives were demonstrated in this degree. Not only did the plaintiff, Adolph, receive relief for the injustice, it is important to note that the existence of the tribunal represented an opportunity for equal access. The tribunal itself was established in response to unequal access and application of justice in the community. This degree, therefore, reflects equal justice in each respect.
In his Letter from Birmingham Jail (New York: Penguin Classics 2018), Martin Luther King, Jr. said, “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” Therefore, it is justice that is an unalienable human right which must be protected. This is especially true with respect to the marginalized and vulnerable within society. Recent high-profile court cases have forced me to introspect on the meaning of justice and the different perspectives of justice within society. The degree has encouraged me to reflect on whether my perspectives are accurate and to challenge any bias I may hold regarding my framework for what is just. As a Mason, this degree resonates with me not only as a Core Value, but a core expectation.
