The 32nd degree is the highest degree in the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry. Masons who reach this degree are conferred the title of Sublime Prince of the Royal Secret. The 32nd degree represents further spiritual enlightenment and wisdom. There are several key symbols associated with this degree that have deep esoteric meaning for Freemasons. In this article, we will explore the primary symbols of the 32nd degree and what they represent.
The Double-Headed Eagle
One of the most recognizable symbols of the 32nd degree is the double-headed eagle. This iconic symbol dates back thousands of years and has been used in heraldry and vexillology to represent dual sovereignty. In Freemasonry, it symbolizes the 32nd degree motto: “Spes Mea In Deo Est” which means “My Hope Is In God.” The double-headed eagle reminds 32nd degree Masons that their faith and hope for the future lies in God’s providence.
Each head of the eagle looks towards the East and West, representing the spiritual guardianship of the first two wells of Masonry in Scotland at Kilwinning and Edinburgh. The eagle’s body refers to the fraternity of Freemasonry which unites men of different faiths and backgrounds. The wings suggest the global reach of Masonic teachings. The number 32 is sometimes represented on the eagle’s breast, symbolizing the 32nd degree. Overall, the double-headed eagle embodies the universal brotherhood and enlightened spirituality of the highest degree in the Scottish Rite.
The Camp
Another important symbol of the 32nd degree is the camp or military camp symbol. This refers to the camp of the Scottish Rite Masonic Order and represents the philosophical army of Freemasonry. The camp is formed by a square with the point upward and the letters “S∴P∴R∴S∴” which stand for “Sublime Prince of the Royal Secret.” This abbreviation is the title conferred on 32nd degree Masons.
The symbol of the camp reminds 32nd degree Masons that they belong to the army of truth-seekers who promote morality, justice, and philanthropic service. It inspires them to fight ignorance and intolerance and champion human progress. The camp represents strength in unity and the ability of Masons from all religions and ethnicities to work together for the enlightenment of humanity. For 32nd degree Masons, the symbol represents their sacred duty to embody Masonic values and principles in thought, word and deed.
The Phoenix
The Phoenix is another symbolic creature associated with the teachings of the 32nd degree. In mythology, the Phoenix is a magical bird that is cyclically regenerated or reborn, obtaining new life by rising from the ashes of its predecessor. For Freemasons, the Phoenix represents the immortality of the soul. By extension, it is a symbol of Masonic rebirth and regeneration from old ways of ignorance.
The Phoenix reminds 32nd degree Masons of their capacity for self-improvement through Masonic enlightenment. Just as the Phoenix rises renewed from the ashes, so too can Masons emerge wiser from rites of spiritual passage. The Phoenix also represents the indestructibility of the Masonic Order and its philosophical principles. Though Masonic lodges may fade, the Order will be reborn and its light spread, just as the Phoenix is resurrected. The Phoenix inspires 32nd degree Masons to have faith in the permanence of Masonic wisdom.
The Crown of Life
The Crown of Life is described in the Bible as the reward for spiritual perseverance, and Masons apply this symbolically to those who reach the 32nd degree in the Scottish Rite. It is represented by a crown with aLegion of Honor cross, a reference to the Masonic decoration of the same name that is the highest honor bestowed by the Southern Jurisdiction of the Scottish Rite.
The Crown of Life reminds the 32nd degree Mason of the honor associated with profound spiritual understanding. It represents victory over ignorance through enlightenment, just as the Crown of Life in scripture represents victory over temptation and sin. For the 32nd degree Mason, the Crown of Life represents Masonry’s highest spiritual reward for dedication to truth and service to humanity. It serves as an inspiration to live nobly and righteously in all aspects of life.
The Seven-Pointed Star
The seven-pointed star is a symbol used in the 32nd degree to represent the seven liberal arts and sciences: grammar, rhetoric, logic, arithmetic, geometry, music and astronomy. It is also a symbol of mystical wisdom and the seven stars mentioned in the Book of Revelations.
In Masonry, the seven-pointed star symbolizes the importance of education and rational enlightenment. The seven liberal arts bridge the heart and mind and allow Masons to better understand themselves and the world. Contemplating the seven-pointed star reminds 32nd degree Masons of the ancient roots of their Order in sacred geometry, mathematics and music. It inspires them to contemplate the hidden mysteries of science and nature. The star’s seven points also represent the perfection of Masonic wisdom.
The Rose Cross
The Rose Cross is a profound symbol used in the 32nd degree and other high degrees of Masonry. It combines the symbol of the rose, representing beauty, and the cross, representing sacrifice. Together, these embody the virtues of selflessness, compassion, and spiritual devotion. The Rose Cross is also a symbol of balance, wisdom and secrecy in esoteric orders.
In Masonry, the Rose Cross represents the enlightened human soul perfected through service and suffering. The rose reminds Masons of the thorny path that must be traveled to reach spiritual perfection. The cross represents the burdens that must be endured along the way. For 32nd degree Masons, the Rose Cross inspires them to follow a life of noble sacrifice and humble generosity towards all. It calls on them to embrace integrity, morality and enlightened conscience in thought, word and action.
The Crown of Thorns
The Crown of Thorns in the 32nd degree symbolism represents the ire directed towards the Scottish Knights Templar and the persecution suffered by Masons through history. It reminds 32nd degree Masons to persevere with fortitude, integrity and faith in times of adversity. The thorns symbolize the trials and challenges that all truth-seekers must face on their path towards spiritual wisdom.
Just as Christ accepted his suffering with dignity, so too must Masons accept the hostility of the ignorant with poise, patience and non-violence. The Crown of Thorns inspires them to remain virtuous even in the face of intolerance. For the 32nd degree Mason, the Crown represents the inner moral strength to withstand persecution and stand firm for one’s values and beliefs even at great personal cost. It is a testament to the character required to advance towards true Masonic enlightenment.
The Five-Pointed Star
Unlike the seven-pointed star, the five-pointed star within a triangle is a symbol found throughout Masonry and not just the 32nd degree. But it holds special importance in the teachings of the 32nd degree. Representing the five points of fellowship, the five-pointed star reminds Masons of the fraternal bond they share. The star within a triangle symbolizes the unified body, mind and spirit of the Masonic Order.
For 32nd degree Masons, this star reinforces the themes of fraternity, enlightenment and mystical knowledge associated with that degree. The number five has symbolic meaning regarding the five noble orders of architecture and the five senses which lead to human knowledge. The light of the five-pointed star inspires 32nd degree Masons to spread Masonic teachings throughout the world and fortify the universal brotherhood of all mankind.
The Ring
The ring is worn by 32nd degree Masons on their right hand pointing inward. This ring depicts a phoenix holding a Pentalpha emblem in its claws, representing the immortality of the soul and the Masonic five points of fellowship. The ring serves as a proud symbol of achievement and reminds the wearer of their commitment to Masonic values.
The ring’s circular shape represents eternity and the immortality of the Order. For 32nd degree Masons, it represents their faith in the endurance of Masonic light and tradition. The ring reminds them of their pledge to uphold the principles of the 32nd degree through thought, word and action. When worn prominently, this meaningful piece of jewelry allows 32nd degree members to be recognized by their fellow Masons worldwide.
The Medal
Another important symbol of the 32nd degree is the official medal awarded to Sublime Princes of the Royal Secret. The front of this medal features an eight-pointed star made by overlapping squares, representing regeneration and immortality. At its center is the double-headed eagle holding a sword, representing spiritual fortitude and protection.
The reverse side depicts the Ark of the Covenant, representing the pact between man and God. Together, the front and back represent the enlightened Mason’s sacred covenant to serve humanity guided by faith in the Divine. The medal reminds 32nd degree members of the honor associated with their high degree and their responsibility to live nobly in accordance with Masonic principles.
Key Themes
Across these central symbols, we can identify several key themes associated with teachings of the 32nd degree:
- Faith in the immortality of the soul
- The regeneration of wisdom over time
- Triumph over adversity through virtue
- Attaining spiritual enlightenment
- Living in service to humanity
- Embracing education and rational science
- Standing for truth with patience and fortitude
- Recognizing the mystical nature of the universe
These powerful symbols and ideals unite to represent the profound teachings conveyed to those who reach the 32nd degree in Scottish Rite Freemasonry.
Rituals and Initiation
Advancement to the 32nd degree is marked by initiation rituals full of symbolism and meant to impart the teachings of the degree unto the candidate. The rituals are conducted in a solemn lodge setting and involve the candidate proceeding through a transformative spiritual journey.
The candidate is led through a series of challenges testing their moral fortitude, integrity, and devotion to Masonic values. Upon successful passage through these trials, the initiate is anointed with oil and welcomed as a new member of the 32nd degree. They are bestowed with the degree’s symbols such as the crown, sash, collar, and ring.
The initiation ceremony employs allegory and tableaux to teach the new 32nd degree members about their responsibilities to embody Masonic ideals. All rituals are meant to be solemn, meaningful and enlightening experiences that make a deep impression on the new Sublime Princes of the Royal Secret. The mystical journey bonds them to the wisdom passed down through the ages.
Privileges and Responsibilities
Attaining the 32nd degree is the highest honor in Scottish Rite Masonry. It grants many privileges as well as solemn responsibilities. 32nd degree Masons are granted access to all meetings of the Order and have voting rights in the Supreme Council. Some jurisdiction’s Supreme Councils are restricted only to 32nd degree Masons.
Beyond political influence, 32nd degree Masons gain access to the deepest teachings and most profound mysteries of Freemasonry. However, these privileges come with the responsibility to live according to Masonic principles in word, thought and action. The 32nd degree Mason strives for continuous self-improvement and spiritual enlightenment.
They are charged with guarding and propagating Masonic teachings and history. 32nd degree members must also show due obedience to the edicts and regulations of the Supreme Council and remain loyal to their Masonic oaths. Fulfilling these responsibilities is considered part of the sublime duty of 32nd degree members.
Prominent 32nd Degree Masons
Attaining the 32nd degree is a rare honor conferred only upon a select few Masons who have demonstrated deep dedication and contributions to the Scottish Rite. Throughout history, many famous figures and prominent leaders across fields have been initiated as 32nd degree Masons. Here are a few noteworthy examples:
Buzz Aldrin
The American astronaut and second man to walk on the Moon was a 32nd degree Scottish Rite Mason. Aldrin carried a Scottish Rite flag on his historic spaceflight.
Roy Clark
The American country music legend known for “Hee Haw” became a 32nd degree Mason in 1987.
Harry S. Truman
The 33rd President of the United States was inducted as a 32nd degree Mason in 1911.
Michael Richards
The American actor famous for his role of Cosmo Kramer on Seinfeld achieved the 32nd degree in 2006.
Ernest Borgnine
The Oscar-winning American actor known for films like Marty and The Wild Bunch was awarded the 32nd degree in 2000.
Thomas Bowdler
The 18th century English doctor best known for publishing the “Bowdlerized” edition of Shakespeare’s works was a 32nd degree Mason.
This list demonstrates the prestige and exclusivity associated with the 32nd degree of Freemasonry. The honor serves as lifelong recognition of a Mason’s commitment to brotherhood and self-improvement in service of humanity.
Conclusion
The 32nd Degree in Scottish Rite Freemasonry represents the pinnacle of a Mason’s journey towards spiritual enlightenment and mystic wisdom. The symbols, rituals and teachings associated with this degree encourage living an honorable, compassionate and virtuous life in the service of truth and humanity. Attaining the 32nd degree is a rare honor reserved only for those Masons who fully dedicate themselves to embodying Masonic values in all aspects of life. The prestige and responsibilities associated with this degree inspire 32nd degree Masons to be stalwart stewards of Masonic tradition.
