A Brother Asks: Ritual's Points

A Brother Asks: What's the point of Freemasonic ritual?

Coach: The point of Ritual in general is to introduce men to thinking differently about how they think normally. The point of Freemasonic ritual is to let men know they can think extraordinarily!

Brother: What's the point of using archaic words when more modern day words would be easily understood?

Coach:  The point of Ritual's use of archaic language is to jar those who can be jarred into thinking about looking into the meaning of words as they change with time and context. Sure, ritual could use more easily understood words, but such easy engagements do not invite men to exercise extraordinary use of their mental abilities.  Men's brains transform to the better with beneficial use.  They transform in extraordinary ways when the extraordinary is put before them to ascertain and perpend in depth. Add to this the fact that philosophical and theological terms in general were originally conveyed within context and these terms change their meaning when interpreted out of context.  Men who are challenged to recognize, understand and apply this information are more apt to cultivate their minds in extraordinary ways.  This especially applies to preparing them well for their spiritual and philosophical pursuits.

Brother: Wait! These terms change when interpreted out of context?

Coach: Yes.  The point of Ritual is to let men know that the meaning behind the words of their faith are no less transitory in meaning, especially when interpreted out of context.  In other words, if you are not aware of the meaning of specific terms within the context and culture in which they were originally used, you are not likely to interpret these words properly.  Interpreting these terms out of context, you are highly likely to come to a misunderstanding of what was originally conveyed and conclude things that were never intended.

Brother: So, ritual is like a prompt to get men to take actions along these lines?

Coach: Yes, if the man is so able. Ritual is a simple nudge provided to each of these capable men.  The presentation of archaic words within Ritual increases the possibility of having each man realize that the words of their faith are no less archaic.  Each term needs further thought, especially within context. 

Brother: What about those who do not heed the call to explore, comprehend and go further in depth?

Coach: Ritual weeds out those who superficial say through their actions, "I'll apply no in depth thought toward what is put before me".  There are quite a few members who fit this category.  You can tell who they are by how they speak about ritual.  Their very looks betray them.

Brother: Okay that explains it.

Coach: Explains what?

Brother: Why I encounter so many of these members who just memorize and regurgitate ritual but who have little to no in depth understanding of what they share.

Coach: Ritual points are made and, when they are, opportunities to benefit by them are presented to those who shall think deeply about these points. Those who remain superficial about these points will either unknowingly preserve this opportunity for others coming through or leave never knowing of what opportunities they missed.

Here's are questions for you to consider:  What ritual terms have you discovered to have meanings other than what you first assigned to them?  What difference did knowing these actual meanings make for you?

F&S,

Bro. John S Nagy