Order of Royal and Select Masters

The Masonic Order of Royal and Select Masters

The Order of Royal and Select Masters, commonly referred to as the Cryptic Rite or the Council of Royal and Select Masters, is an invitational Masonic body that serves as an extension of the York Rite. This highly regarded and exclusive order is dedicated to preserving and perpetuating the lesser-known 'Cryptic Degrees' within Freemasonry. The order's primary focus is to elucidate the period between the Master Mason degree and the Royal Arch degree, providing a deeper understanding of Masonic history and symbolism.

Structure and Degrees:

The Order of Royal and Select Masters is structured around four degrees, each of which highlights different aspects of Masonic lore and tradition. The degrees are as follows:

Royal Master – This degree explores the events leading up to the completion of King Solomon's Temple, emphasising the importance of planning and preparation in achieving one's goals. The central narrative revolves around the character of Hiram Abiff and his role in the temple's construction, providing valuable insights into the Master Mason degree.

Select Master – The Select Master degree delves into the construction of a secret vault beneath King Solomon's Temple, which houses the sacred treasures and knowledge of the Craft. This degree teaches the value of secrecy and discretion in preserving the sanctity of the Masonic tradition, while also emphasising the importance of fidelity and trust.

Super-Excellent Master – This degree is set during the siege and subsequent destruction of King Solomon's Temple by the Babylonians. It highlights the importance of loyalty and faithfulness, even in the face of adversity and turmoil. The narrative showcases the resilience of Masonic values, demonstrating that the principles of the Craft can endure even the most challenging circumstances.

Thrice Illustrious Master – The final degree of the order, the Thrice Illustrious Master degree, takes place during the rebuilding of the Temple under the guidance of Zerubbabel. It teaches the importance of leadership, perseverance, and commitment to the preservation of Masonic values.

Membership and Organisation:

Membership in the Order of Royal and Select Masters is by invitation only, and candidates must be Royal Arch Masons in good standing to be eligible for consideration. The order is governed by a Grand Council, which is responsible for overseeing the conferral of degrees and the general administration of the organisation.

Each local body within the order is referred to as a 'Council', led by an Illustrious Master and a team of officers. These Councils function as the primary means through which the Cryptic Degrees are communicated and preserved.

The Masonic Order of Royal and Select Masters: Further Insights into the Cryptic Rite

Beyond the core structure, degrees, and organisation of the Order of Royal and Select Masters, there are additional aspects of the Cryptic Rite that contribute to its rich history and significance within Freemasonry. In this article, we delve into the order's origins, international presence, and its influence on the broader Masonic landscape.

Origins:

The origins of the Cryptic Rite can be traced back to the early 18th century, when the degrees of Royal Master and Select Master first appeared in the United States. Initially conferred by individual lodges and chapters, the degrees gained widespread recognition and were eventually consolidated into a more structured system. The first Grand Council of Royal and Select Masters was formed in Connecticut in 1819, formalising the administration of the Cryptic Degrees and establishing the order as a distinct Masonic body.

International Presence:

Although the Order of Royal and Select Masters originated in the United States, it has since expanded to other countries, including England, Scotland, Canada, and Australia. The order's international presence is governed by various Grand Councils, which operate independently but maintain a shared commitment to the preservation and communication of the Cryptic Degrees. In England and Wales, the order is overseen by the Grand Council of Royal and Select Masters, which was established in 1873. This Grand Council is responsible for administering the order in its jurisdiction and ensuring the integrity of the Cryptic Rite.

Influence on Freemasonry:

The Order of Royal and Select Masters has had a considerable impact on the broader Masonic landscape, providing essential context and depth to the history and symbolism of the Craft. By focusing on the period between the Master Mason degree and the Royal Arch degree, the order helps to bridge the gap between the Blue Lodge and the Capitular Masonry, offering a more comprehensive understanding of the Masonic journey. The Cryptic Rite's emphasis on themes such as loyalty, perseverance, and discretion has also served to reinforce the core values of Freemasonry, ensuring the continued relevance of these principles for modern Masons.