Because Bibles published in that time period are so common today, they are easy to obtain. However, there are differences between the two Bibles when it comes to symbols used by Freemasonry. Carl H. Claudy, Foreign Countries (Richmond, VA: Macoy Publishing and Masonic Supply Company, 1971),11. Meaning thereby that no other book is as significant as the Bible. According to the International Society of Bible Collectors, American Bible publishing experienced somewhat of an explosion just after the end of the Revolutionary War. It is my understanding that they are more common in the United States of America, Canada, and Great Britain; I also tentatively add that they might be common in Ireland, Australia, and New Zealand. For examples, the highest authority for Masons in Massachusetts is the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts, for Arizona the Grand Lodge of Arizona, and so on. Finally, if your conscience troubles you because you own theMasonic Lodge Bible, then you need to throw it away. These writings were compiled into what is now known as the Holy Bible during a series called Synods which occurred throughout history. This term is used to emphasize the importance and centrality of these sacred writings in the lives of members of the fraternity. One of the oldest and most mysterious of these threads is that of Freemasonry and the Masonic Bible. The Masonic Bible is primarily used for teaching lessons about morality and ethics within Freemasonry organizations, By contrast, the Holy Bible is primarily used for religious worship in Christian churches. A special bible for every one including White Bible, OES Altar Bible, Eastern Star Family/Wedding Bible, Master Mason Masonic Candidate Bible, Masonic Gift Bible with emblem, Masonic Altar Bible- Dark Blue with Picture. In fact, second to antique childrens books, thumbed through by little hands, old Bibles tend to suffer the worst when it comes to their condition. All rights reserved. No wonder, then, that the preface of early editions of the Kentucky Monitor teaches of savior figures overcoming evil figures, thereby redeeming their followers: The Hindus called him Krishna; the Chinese, Kioun-tse; the Persians, Sosiosch; the Chaldeans, Dhouvanai; the Egyptians, Horus;the Christians, Jesus; Masons, Hiram.12 This statement (though now expunged from current editions) is expected, given the Masonic teaching of Hiram. The Freemasons Are the Oldest Fraternal Organization in the World. Ultimately, both versions are valuable resources for their intended audiences; however, they serve different purposes and should be used accordingly. This is an online Viewpoint articlefrom theChristian Research Journal. The world is like a vast tapestry, with each thread representing a distinct culture and belief system. What is the Eastern Star organization, and are they related to the Free Masons? Although the terms edition and version can often be synonymous, they are not so in the context of this article. When a Lodge is working in a specific . In this article, we will explore how these two great works of literature compare when it comes to translation. The Bible is not only the single most printed book in history but its also the most read. It is to be noted here that many other Holy Books from all of the languages reside upon the various Masonic altars around the Globe, for the Freemasons who are English speaking. If you own a King James Bible that is embossed with the Masonic emblem and it contains free mason symbolisms, you are free to own it and keep it in your home, unless it troubles your conscience. Is belief in the Great Architect of the Universe (GAOTU) the same thing as belief in the God of the Bible. 1. He's also the Distinguished Professor of Comparative . Over the years, many publishers have produced and marketed versions of the Bible with added content in introductions that refers to Masonic ceremonies. The most common question we get is from people who have an old Bible published in the 20th century and are curious about what it is worth. In Christianity, these stories usually involve Jesus Christ or his apostles. Due to the relative scarcity of antique Bibles in decent condition which are 200+ years old, their value and collectibility rises. Join the 3,000+ Brethren from around the world inside our weekly Masonic newsletter and get our best selling ebook for free (usual value: $20). Bill Mankin is also a Christian, He's a 32 nd degree Mason in the lodge in Boise. Some of the viral Facebook posts ( here , here ) include a screenshot of a WorthPoint.com listing for a RARE 1883 ANTIQUE FAMILY BIBLE DOUAY RHEIMS ILLUMINATI MASONIC 22KT BID AT .99! One of the ways that masonic propaganda exposes what they are, is their association with Islam through the Shriners, and how their resources and maps in this book never call the land of Israel by its name, but always Palestine, or Canaan, implying that the Israelites are just thieves of someone else's land. Masons simply respond, Thats just Mackeys [Coils, Pikes] opinion! This practice is, therefore, not effective, and I would like to see it become a thing of the past. he who doubts is condemned . The Great Architect of the Universe, the giver of all good gifts and graces.In Thy name we assemble.And we beseech thee, O Lord God, to bless our present assembling, and to illuminate our minds, that we may walk in the light of thy countenance; and when the trials of our probationary state are over, be admitted into THE TEMPLE not made with hands, eternal in the heavens.5, Here the Great Architect assumes the role of a canopy deity, subsuming all individual deities (including the Bibles triune God) into himself in syncretistic fashion. might be worth considering that the Bible is not what people think it Masonic book published in America was printed by Brother Benjamin Franklin in Philadelphia in 1734. To the best of my knowledge, it is one of those things that has been assumed to be "known.". Here are just a few of the most popular: Beauty and quality craftsmanship go a long way in adding to desirability, and these are definitely factors to consider when evaluating an old Bible. The Nature of God 108 9 The Name of God 119 10. The American flag is a symbol of freedom. Rare / Antique Books First Editions Vintage Hollywood Postcards & Ephemera Militaria / War Everything! belief and ordered the Bible to be kept from Priests because it might be While the Masonic Bible is used by Masons to learn about their faith, it does not contain any religious doctrines or official teachings from any religion. My own lodge has ordered various copies, each one of which is given as a gift to those whom we raise to the sublime degree of Master Mason. 2023 Freemasons Community | All Rights Reserved. Additionally, there is much discussion of masonic allegory within the masonic bible that is not found in its counterpart. It includes important masonic symbols and teachings, with selected passages referring directly to freemasonry. Believing He is but one of many ways stands in direct contradiction to the Bible. The Nature of Man 139 Additionally, while the Holy Bible is considered to be divinely inspired by God, the Masonic Bible is largely based on humanistic principles. The Holy Bible provides a complete understanding of Christianitys teachings and history, as well as an explanation of how these beliefs should be applied in everyday life. In the 1960s, American writers Robert Anton Wilson and Kerry Thornley published gag letters in Playboy magazine from alleged readers regarding a secret organization called the Illuminati (here). Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles. Here Paul encourages Christians to buy in the meat market but to not ask if it was sacrificed to idols or demons. This is an online articlefrom theChristian Research Journal. Though the cover design of Bidens specific Bible is unclear, the eye of Providence seen on some antique Douay-Rheims Bibles has been a Christian symbol for centuries, predating Masonic use. In fact, just one page from the Gutenberg Bible could be expected to fetch $100,000 or more! Freemasonry is a cult and its core teachings are not Christian. As such they remain an invaluable resource for anyone looking to deepen their connection with God through sacred ceremonies and worship services. Bibles like these have value only as reading material. Furthermore, allegorical stories are used as a method of teaching lessons about morality and ethics within masonry. Furthermore, while some parts of both bibles may be similar in terms of content and language, there can still be subtle differences between them due to changes made by translators over time. For examples of this apologetic, see Steven Tsoukalas, Masonic Rites and Wrongs: An Examination of Freemasonry (Phillipsburg, NJ: Presbyterian and Reformed, 1995) and Steven Tsoukalas, The Masonic Lodge: Is It Compatible with Christianity? Personal Freedom Outreach, http://www.pfo.org/masonldg.htm. In order to be a Mason, a candidate must believe in the existence of a Supreme Being, as the Grand Lodge of New Mexico, for example, states for candidates of the Entered Apprentice (first) degree.4 The specific identity of a candidates supreme being is not of concern to the Lodge initially. But, a fact that is not be ignored here is that various Bibles have been placed upon the Masonic altar. See Tsoukalas, Masonic Rites and Wrongs, 74-76, and "The Masonic Lodge." The reenactment is centered around the Masonic legend of Hiram, who, as the Bible notes, helped King Solomon build the Temple (1Kings7:13-45). In the early 1600s, freemasonry was widely accepted and popular amongst members of the aristocracy and the clergy. The usage of language in both Bibles can be seen through their structure. and (2)Are these teachings at odds with Christianity? The Masonic Bible and The Holy Bible both hold great significance to adherents of different religions. Symbolic teachings in rituals and/or monitors of each state, province, or geographic area are in essence the same for Grand Lodges that are part of Regular Masonry. From Grand Lodge to Grand Lodge, rituals and monitors vary slightly, only in wording. During official ceremonies, however, the candidate prays, with men who may believe in other deities, to the Great Architect of the Universe.. A: No, Freemason Bible is not any different from a regular Bible. The guiding principle for situations where the demonic is involved is given to us in 1 Corinthians 10:31. However, its popularity declined in subsequent years due to its perceived links with Christianity. Bibles are heavily used and often tend to be in poor condition. The compilation of the Christian scripture began with the Torah (the first five books of the Old Testament). On the other hand, Christian readers are clearly the target audience for the traditional Holy Bible. Today, many lodges still adhere to the teachings in the masonic bible, although not all lodges do so. Since the Free Masons have biblical foundations, it is obvious that they to would have a bible. It contains scripture readings, sacred ceremonies, and worship services that are used to help believers connect with God in meaningful ways. All false religions and false teachings are demonic in origin (1 Timothy 4:1). I often hear some Christians say, I dont agree with Masonrys teachings, but Masonry does good works for our community. We can all agree that Masons do good works, but this doesnt settle the issue. Candida Moss, a professor of theology at Britains University of Birmingham, (here), told Reuters via email that there is absolutely no evidence that ties the Douay-Rheims Bible to the Illuminati or Freemasons., Noting the fact that Freemasons and Roman Catholics are not historical bedfellows, Moss called the idea of Masons using this particular Bible extraordinary.. Ultimately, freemasons must decide whether or not to continue using the masonic bible in their rituals but either way, its influence can still be seen in modern freemasonry today. I am grateful for my Masonic Heirloom Bible. The Masonic Bible has been around for centuries and its popularity has fluctuated over time. Additionally, some passages from other texts have been included to further emphasize certain points made within the Masonic Bibles pages. In Freemasonry, the lodge means two things. It is no wonder, then, why Masonic scholar Allen Roberts writes:6, You have learned that Freemasonry calls God The Great Architect of the Universe. This is the Freemasons special name for God, because He is universal. . Therefore, if owning the Bible disturbed your conscience, then do not keep it. It is leather and tooled in gold. It emphasizes individual responsibility and emphasizes knowledge as power. In fact, the only thing that makes this Bible a "Masonic" Bible, is that it includes a short . The FreeMasons essentially use the Bible for the masonic altar, and they have used several bibles through the centuries for their rituals. Right next to him is Dr. Walter Martin. And since their mystical origins revolve around the Christian beliefs, they have several revered and holy bibles. This was followed by other texts such as Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Song Of Solomon. But what exactly is the difference between the Masonic Bible and The Holy Bible? Its extremely unlikely that any of us have a loose leaf from the original Gutenberg stored up in the attic, but it certainly is mind-blowing to think about the value of just a single page. The clasped Bible pictured above sold at one of our auctions for $300. on the Internet. Something went wrong. 11. If you have an antique Bible published in America in the very early 19th century, it could possibly have some value. The Illuminati, a secret society, was active for a decade in mid-18th century Europe before disbanding, are examined in articles by Vox (here) and the Guardian (here). There is also The Founders Bible Heirloom Edition. The Bible in the foreground of the picture, above, is a Geneva Bible from 1581. To obtain monitors, see http://www.ephesians5-11.org/monitors.htm. Trilogy, and more recently in 2009 with the publication of Browns novel The Lost Symbol ( here , here ). Furthermore, both Bibles include stories about Gods plan for humanity, with an emphasis on sin and salvation through Jesus Christ. Can You Become a Freemason if You Are Disabled? My King James Bible is embossed with the Masonic emblem and filled with free mason symbolisms. & A.M. of New Mexico, 1992),20. The Masonic Bible is distinct from the Holy Bible in many ways. Both of these Freemasonry and the Bible are said to go along. While there are some similarities between the two Bibles, their primary difference lies in their purpose. On the other hand, the structure of the Holy Bible follows a more rigid format, with each chapter having a clearly defined purpose. Masonic World View 50 4. Yes, the Masonic Lodge Bible contains false teaching, the doctrines of demons. In comparison, bible readers from within Christianity will find that all of its content is relevant to them and their beliefs. This edition also features engravings depicting several scenes from Masonic rituals and ceremonies. An heirloom edition is something that can be passed down from parent to child that contains a bit of their family history; to tie this with the Bible shows the importance that the Bible has to ones own life. In general, a Bible published from around 1820 2000 almost certainly has little or no value. North Dakota Monitor (Grand Lodge, A. F. and A. M. of North Dakota, 1965),14447. Both Bibles feature stories from the Old Testament and New Testament, The language used in both books is similar, Both Bibles contain teachings about Christianity, There are many versions of each book that have been written over time, The Masonic Bible references God as The Grand Architect of the Universe, The Holy Bible refers to God by several names including Yahweh, Elohim and El Shaddai, Both rely on symbolism and allegory to convey spiritual truths, In Freemasonry, symbols such as pillars, squares, compasses, and other tools are used to represent moral principles, In Christianity, symbols such as bread and wine are used to represent Jesus Christs body and blood that were sacrificed for our sins, Additionally, both books contain stories of how individuals interacted with God, In Freemasonry, these stories often involve figures from history or mythology who exemplify core values like integrity. Therefore, we have a principle thatall things are lawful for Christians, unless it involves sin. Masonic Altar The FreeMasons essentially use the Bible for the masonic altar, and they have used several bibles through the centuries for their rituals. 13. In a few of the private Masonic groups of which I am a member on social media, I have, at times, come across comments from Masons in foreign countries stating that there is no such thing as a Masonic Bible. For example, even an incomplete King James Bible from 1611 can still be worth a considerable amount. Asked about the presence of the symbol, which also graces the back of the U.S. dollar bill, on the covers of some Douay-Rheims Bibles, Moss emphasized that the Eye of Providence predates Masonic use. Such versions often include illustrations of King Solomon's Temple, for example. Among other things, it promotes John the Florida Masonic Monitor, 23rd. If you feel your Bible falls into these categories, we welcome you to submit your Bible for review. Instead, they are sacrificing to demons who deceive the naive and the unsuspecting into believing that the idol is a god. One of the exceptions to this guideline is if the Bible is finely bound or has some special characteristic which sets it apart from the crowd, it can have more collectibility. The Free Masons are a group that has sprung from the Knight Templars several centuries ago. to the Masonic God, the all-encompassing canopy deity. By contrast, the Holy Bible is a religious text with much more literal interpretations. From holy rituals to scripture readings, both Bibles contain an immense wealth of spiritual knowledge that can be used by seekers of all faiths. The Masonic Bible is a specific version of the King James Version of the Holy Bible, which has been tailored to meet the needs of masonic readers. The differences between the Masonic Bible and the Holy Bible are striking, like a lightning bolt from the sky. On the other hand, the Holy Bible contains scripture from various religions and serves as a source of spiritual guidance for Christians. The ones whose Masonic lodges used the Bible, the Bible that exists today is like all of the Bibles, a translated version of the actual Hebrew texts. During this ritual, various symbols are displayed such as a square, compass, level and plumb rule. While the Reuters Fact Check team could not find images clearly showing the full cover of the Biden familys Douay-Rheims Bible, it is true that the covers of some antique Douay-Rheims editions ( www.ebay.com/itm/143919256211 , here ) include the Eye of Providence, an eye inside a triangle commonly seen as a Masonic and Illuminati symbol. It includes notable Masonic phrases and symbolism, such as references to the Supreme Architect of the Universe and the Great Light. Since God has given us theprinciple thatall things are lawful for Christians unless it involves sin, it is okay to own an embossed Masonic Lodge Bible. The Fatherhood of God 100 8. This, combined with the experience dealing with antique books and access to historic auction records help judge the interest for certain types of Bibles in the antiquarian marketplace. He was an English Mason who wanted to create a book that would serve as a symbol for Freemasonry. Florida Masonic Monitor, 23rd. An example of a dilapidated spine of a Masonic Bible and how they can look when restored by experts. I had come across a copy of this freemason bible and read the notes, looking for any unique evidence which might be used against the masons. This copy was purchased from a seller on Ebay for $16 and Second, because the lambskin apron lesson is given indiscriminately to those who reject Christs substitutionary work, it fosters a false notion that purity of life and conduct is what is necessary for reaching heaven. But today, in a time when those Dogmatic warnings aren't taken The presidents use of this family heirloom, which he used twice while being sworn in as vice president in 2009 and 2013 ( here. There also exist other heirloom editions of the Bible that are not Masonic. A Masonic Bible is in most cases a regular King James Bible, containing both Old and New Testaments, with some pages at the beginning describing Freemasonry and how different passages in the Bible relate to different ritual and history of the Frat. . Due to historical tensions between the Masonic Order and the Catholic Church, it is highly unlikely that a Bible beloved of Catholics would have anything to do with the Freemasons, John Dickie, a historian at University College London and author ofThe Craft: How the Freemasons Made the Modern World, told Reuters via email (johndickie.net/). The only Masonic Edition of the Bible with all these features: Masonic, Scottish Rite, and Eastern Star Records; Masonic Presidents; Freemasonry and the Holy Bible - Taking you through the internal workings of Freemasonry from the first to the thirty-third degree; Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite Masonry; Order of the Eastern Star; Questions Proper Sources. As a Latter-day Saint, I personally would love one day to see Masonic Heirloom Editions of The Book of Mormon: Another Testament of Jesus Christ, Doctrine and Covenants, and The Pearl of Great Price, given that we in my faith consider these to be scripture in addition to the Bible. These rituals and practices are a way for masons to express their faith in God and their commitment to each other. Is it wrong to own a Masonic Lodge Bible? A previous poster condemned the Nazism of the original poster. Who Was Prince Hall (& What Is Prince Hall Freemasonry). Baptist as a patron "saint" of Freemasonry and red-letters the Over time, it has been interpreted in many different ways, but its basic message remains constant: that man should strive for goodness in his life and that faith in God will bring peace and joy. Bill, we're glad that you're here tonight. Bibles like these have value only as reading material. Most of you folks are familiar with Dr. Martin. Finally, with the common gavel lesson the Lodge wrenches two biblical passages out of context, 1Peter2:5 (living stones, spiritual house) and 2Corinthians5:1 (house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens), and applies them to all Masons regardless of what deity they (as individuals) profess. Both books have an important role to play in spirituality but serve distinct purposes when it comes to exploring themes related to faith. These Masonic teachings are why Masonic author Carl Claudy states that true Freemasonry gives to a man a well-spent life, and assurance of a glorious immortality.14 They also account for why Grand Lodges state in their funeral services that brother Masons are in the Celestial Lodge.15 As long as Freemasonry continues such teachings, it will remain at odds with the historic biblical faith once for all given to the saints (Jude3). Trilogy in 1975, described here by the New York Times in its 2007 obituary for Wilson as a mind-twisting science-fiction series about a secret global society that became a cult classic., In the years since, Illuminati believers have claimed the secret groups responsibility for events like the assassination of President John F. Kennedy and the terror attacks of Sept. 11, 2001 (here). The exact same Bible, not owned by Elvis Presley, is worth $10 or less. It's worth the price the bookstore has it listed for, or possibly a bit less. This article first appeared in the Viewpoint column of the Christian Research Journal, volume28, number6 (2005). scanned for your convenience. 9. 7. Should a Christian be a member of a secret society? Then Paul tells the Corinthians that he does not want them to share or be involved with demons. Finally, if your conscience troubles you because you own the Masonic Lodge Bible, then you need to throw it away. Before that, the Bible was available in handwritten manuscripts. 2023 Freemasons Community | All Rights Reserved. This distinction of content between the two bibles has led to much debate among scholars over centuries about which variant has more authority or accuracy than the other. Masonic and OES Bibles [email protected] 1-800-637-4640 . It refers to a group of Masons coming together in fellowship, and, at the same time, refers to the room or building in which they meet. But what sets the Masonic Bible apart from the Holy Bible? Those who think that they are sacrificing to a god are not sacrificing to any god. Pierre-Eugne-Marcellin Berthelot, (born Oct. 27, 1827, Paris, Francedied March 18, 1907, Paris), French organic and physical chemist, science historian, and government official. This allows for easier understanding when it comes to interpreting its contents. . There is nothing in the existing Standard Work and Lectures (SWL) that specifies that the Bible is to be opened to a specific passage of scripture when the Lodge is working in a specific Degree. I hope that those Masons who subscribe to other religions also get the chance one day to see such editions of their own volumes of sacred law. However, due to its smaller circulation it is not as easy to find as the Holy Bible. In Romans 14:23 the apostle Paul said, "But . This is a question which has been asked for centuries, ever since man began to ponder the nature of both books. Douay Bible:It was translated in Douai and Rheims. This caused some versions of the Masonic Bible to be reworked to suit other religious practices. Freemasonry is a fraternal organization with its own set of symbols and rituals that appear in the Masonic Bible but not in The Holy Bible. From the standpoint of Masonic principles and teachings, there is no such thing as a Masonic Bible. Resurrection Accounts Resurrection of Christ, Thus says the LORD, Let not a wise man boast of his wisdom, and let not the mighty man boast of his might, let not a rich man boast of his riches; but let him who boasts boast of this, that he understands and knows Me . It can be said that in millenniums, no other book could replace it. Just think about how people have used and cherished Bibles through the years. The existence of Masonic Bibles in no way, shape, or form makes Masonry a religion. These modern 20th century Bibles are the type most of us have. The availability of the Masonic Bible and the Holy Bible is an important factor to consider. Freemasonry & Hollywood: Famous Actors Who Were Freemasons, 10 Secret Societies, Clubs & Groups Like The Freemasons. The Masonic Order, also known as the Freemasons, are another historic secret society (here). Sometimes, you dont even need the entire Bible to have great value on your hands. Why? This antique Bible dates to 1743 and though it has (contemporary) writing in it, is desirable. Are Beards, Tattoos, Piercings & Body Modifications Allowed in Freemasonry? Unfortunately, I have never seen such an edition of a Torah, a Quran, etc. You can even use the pricing information as a guide to resell the Bible yourself. If your old Bible was published the mid-to-late 19th century, or anytime in the 20th century, its not going to be worth much. According to research, more than 180 million copies of the Holy Bible have been printed since its first publication in 1611. scriptures which were originally penned by Satanic Jews, perhaps it Note the following prayer offered in the monitor of the Grand Lodge of Kentucky, which is characteristic of prayers in all Masonic Lodges. Firstly, the Masonic Bible contains a large collection of writings that are specific to Freemasonry. The legend (which is acted out in the Masonic third degree) starts with this fact but then departs from it, stating that Hiram was in possession of certain Masonic secrets and that he was accosted by three ruffians who subsequently murdered him when he refused to disclose the secrets. The Masonic Lodge I. Masonic Nature and Influence 10 2. Each symbol has its own significance in masonry, which serves as a reminder of its core values. 15. Freemasonry: The Bible is only one of seven commonly used Volumes of Sacred Law (VSLs), all of which are deemed equally important: "The Holy Book of any religion may be used as a VSL, provided that it teaches and its adherents believe in a Supreme Being" (https://grandlodgeofiowa.org/docs/Freemasonry_Religion/VolumeofSacredLaworiginal.pdf,
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