The Meaning of Masonry, Revised Edition (Agapa Masonic Classics) Paperback – November 30, 2007

As an avid reader, and a Mason, this book was recommended to me as part of an unofficial "should read" list of books about Freemasonry. So I eagerly purchased it and read it. Although I enjoyed some of it, what the rest ended up being was a fairly mind numbing book for me. Please understand that I'm not going to rake this book over the coals and bad mouth it. That would be wrong. For I know that others find this book fascinating and it means a lot to them. It just wasn't my style. And I have a feeling that a lot of other folks out there might find it to be the same for them.This book was written by an obviously brilliant man by the name of W. L. Wilmshurst. He was a very spiritual and philosophical man and that comes out heavily in his writings. So much so that the publisher even alluded to it in the "Publisher's Foreword to the New Edition" contained in the book. It was also written in the year of 1922 when books were written and read in a different fashion than that of today's books. If you are not used to that type of written material, you may have some difficulties in understanding the meaning of this book as I did. If you come across this book and are thinking of purchasing it, just make sure you understand what type of read it is going to be.

As a recently raised Master Mason, I had more questions afterword than before. This book makes a large stride in attempting to answer many of the esoteric, philosophical, and spiritual questions many of us Freemasons have after being raised.Most books I have read recently about Masonry tend to be about the history and symbols of Freemasonry. This book goes much deeper. Beyond the fraternity and charity there are deeper, unexplainable, undescribable reasons we sought out Masonry. If you are a Mason and are looking beyond the superficial aspects of our Craft this is a must have book! On the other hand, this book will make very little sense to a non-Mason.The book was written by an English Mason so some aspects of the book do not apply to American Freemasonry. However the Plumbstone Edition has some editorial commentary that helps explain the differences.N.B.-Plumbstone publishing has done a great job with reprinting this Masonic Classic. I look forward to more publications from them!

Best book I have every read on true freemasonry. And I have pretty much read them all. This book is why I became a Mason and should be read by every Mason.

The Meaning of Masonry is extremely well written by a man that obviously knows his stuff. Mr. Wilmhurst very clearly presents his views and supporting evidence albeit in a bit of a dated vernacular. If nothing else it will present you with a solid viewpoint of the spiritual philosophy involved in Freemasonry in Great Britain and the York Rite, but may not be completely relatable to American Masons. It makes a good contrast and companion piece to John J. Robinson's "Born in Blood."

This books is an excellent source of information for masons. Most of the things will not make sense to non-masons. Royal Arch degree is also recommended before reading this book. I've seen a lot of masons pick up this book and come up with wrong conclusions. You have to be "ready" to be able to understand it. When you are, it will provide a wealth of information.

Tightly written guidance for understanding and applying the science of self-discovery. After laying out his premise on page 14, the author leads the Master Mason to a new level of personal growth; an intellectual feast.

The best teaching on the esoteric side of the craft.

Arrived within a few business days and was in excellent condition; just as described. Glad to have the book back in my collection.

If you're wanting a book which explores the spiritual side of Masonry, then buy this. Couldn't put it down, read it in 2 days, then started again.