Wilmshurst's Meaning of Masonry provides deeper insight into the meaning of Freemasonry's degrees. He fits his understanding of the degrees offered in modern Freemasonry into the context of what ancient mystery religions revealed. It is one of those dense books that will provide new insights every time it is read. If you are looking for a deeper discussion of what Freemasonry means, is designed to instill in its members, and its historical context, this is a great book to read. ( )

A collection of erudite insightful essays about Masonic philosophy in which the author argues that Freemasonry is a revival of the ancient Mystery Schools: a way to spiritual enlightenment that has been obscured by the charitable and social aspects of the Craft. He postlates that Masonic rituals are mere symbolic recreations of the real physical and mental challenges overcome by ancient seekers of philosophical truths.

From his mystical understanding, Wilmshurst believed that secular modern society had robbed modern Masons of an appreciation of the gnostic value of the three degree rituals. With many applicants lacking this spiritual insight,. Wilmhurst wanted the fraternity to rediscover its mystic origins.

As a non-Mason, it is difficult for me to appreciate the subtleties of some of the author's points but there is a great wisdom underpinning his analysis, which is compelling even for the mundane. I imagine that my appreciation of the book would be greatly blunted did I not share some of his knowledge of the Mystic traditions. I cannot therefore recommend the book to anyone who does not have access to such information and a knowledge of the texts of the Masonic rituals. Nor will it appeal to those who see Christianity as an overt faith or, indeed, at the other extreme, anyone uncomfortable with Christian faith. This is an exploration of Masonic ritual as a Christian Mystery. ( )