TEACHINGS, SYMBOLIC, OF THE DEGREES. Freemasonry teaches by symbols and symbolical ceremonies, and hence each degree, through these agencies, illustrates and inculcates some particular virtue, or commemorates some important event. The following is an analytical summary of the ideas, which the several degrees of the Order seek to enforce; thus in Ancient Craft Masonry: 1. Dependence; the weak and helpless condition of the human family on their entrance into the world; the ignorance and darkness that surround man until the moral and intellectual light of reason and revelation breaks in upon his mind; obedience, secrecy and humility, and the practice of charity.
2. The struggle for knowledge after the release of the mind from the bondage of darkness and igno rance; its attainment, and the reward due to industry and perseverance.
3. Progress in the great duties of aiding humanity from the thraldom of vice and error; man's regenera tion; higher sphere of happiness; integrity; mortality of the body, and the immortality of the soul.
4. Order, regularity, and a proper system of discrimination between the worthy and the unworthy; the just reward to the industrious and faithful.
5. Virtue and talent the only proper distinctions of position. All associations of men must, for the sake of harmony and order, be governed by well regulated laws.
6. The completion and dedication of the temple; the spiritual edifice which man must erect in his soul— that "house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens;" an acknowl edgement that the labors of mans earthly toil are over, and he is received into the abode of the just and perfect.
7. The revelation of the divine law; an exhibition of the toils and vicissitudes of man's pilgrimage through life; a realization of the sublime truths promised, when the veils which obscure the mental vision are drawn aside, and man, raised and regenerated, shall enjoy the blessings of peace and joy in the heavenly temple.
8. The mysteries revealed; man rewarded according to his work; the Alpha and Omega—the first and the last.
9. Skill and ingenuity appreciated; justice and mercy accorded to the faithful and worthy.