PRINCE OF JERUSALEM. The 16th degree of the Ancient and Accepted rite. The history of this degree is founded upon the incidents that occurred during the build ing of the second temple, at which time the Jews were much annoyed by the constant and malicious interference of the Samaritans, their ancient enemies. This degree is closely connected with, and a continuation of, the degree of the Knight of the East and Sword, to which the reader is referred for a more detailed statement. There should be two principal apartments in addition to the ante-room. The first apartment represents the court of Zerubbabel at Jerusalem. The hangings are of saffron color, except the East, which is hung with white, blue, red, and violet colors, in stripes. The second apartment represents the council chamber of Darius, King of Persia. The hangings are green, the throne and canopy saffron color. In it is no Masonic
furniture. The Senior Warden presides and represents Darius, King of Persia, dressed in royal robes, and wearing a crown. In the first apartment the presiding officer repre sents Zerubbabel, and is styled Most Illustrious. The apron is of crimson, lined and edged with saffron color. On the flap is en equal balance, held by a hand of Justice. In the middle of the apron, a representation of the second temple. The jewel is a medal of gold ; on which is engraved a hand, holding an equal balance ; a double-edged sword, surrounded by five stars ; on one side of which is the letter D, and on the other the letter Z, the initials of Darius and Zerubbabel. The Princes of Jerusalem are sometimes styled "Chiefsoof Masonry," and are authorized to visit and inspect all lodges of inferior degrees.