Royal arch freemasonry
Overview
Royal Arch Freemasonry is a branch of Freemasonry that is considered by many Masons to be the completion of the initial phase of the Masonic journey. It is one of the appendant bodies of Freemasonry that a Master Mason may join for further exposure to Masonic knowledge. The Royal Arch is described as the "root and marrow of Freemasonry."[1]
History
The origins of Royal Arch Masonry are not clearly defined. It is known that it existed as early as the 1740s in England, and possibly even earlier in Ireland. The earliest known reference to the Royal Arch is in the minutes of the Freemasons' Hall in London in 1743.[2]
Structure
The structure of Royal Arch Masonry varies between jurisdictions, but the basic structure consists of a series of degrees. These degrees are usually conferred in a Royal Arch Chapter, which is governed by three principals, who jointly rule the chapter.
Degrees
In most jurisdictions, a Royal Arch Chapter confers four degrees: Mark Master Mason, Past Master, Most Excellent Master, and Royal Arch Mason. The Royal Arch Mason degree is said to represent the completion of the Master Mason degree, the symbolic death, burial and resurrection of the candidate.
Rituals
The rituals of Royal Arch Masonry, like those of Craft Masonry, are based on the biblical story of the building of King Solomon's Temple. The Royal Arch ritual focuses on the recovery of the lost word, a symbol of the recovery of lost truth.
Symbolism
The symbolism in Royal Arch Masonry is rich and complex, with a focus on the rebuilding of the Temple of Solomon. The Royal Arch itself is a symbol of the triumph of the spirit over the material, and the recovery of that which was lost.
Membership
Membership in a Royal Arch Chapter is open to Master Masons in good standing. The process of joining a Royal Arch Chapter is similar to that of joining a Craft Lodge.
Influence
The influence of Royal Arch Masonry extends beyond the Masonic fraternity. Its teachings and rituals have influenced other fraternal organizations and have been incorporated into various systems of esoteric thought.