The 33rd degree of Freemasonry is the highest degree of the Scottish Rite and is conferred on members who have rendered outstanding service to the fraternity. It is sometimes referred to as a “Knights Templar” or “Master Mason” degree. There is no definitive answer as to how many 33rd Degree Masons there are worldwide, as membership in the Scottish Rite and its various degrees is voluntary and not a required part of Freemasonry. However, it is estimated that there are approximately 60,000 members in the worldwide fraternity of 33rd Degree Masons.
The 33rd Degree of Masonry is the highest degree of the Scottish Rite, part of the worldwide fraternity known as Freemasonry. This degree is awarded to members in recognition of their service and dedication to the fraternity.
Requirements for Becoming a 33rd Degree Mason
Becoming a 33rd degree Mason is the highest honor available to members of the Freemasonry fraternity. It is an achievement that requires dedication, commitment and continuous service to the organization. To be eligible, a Mason must meet certain criteria and demonstrate a deep understanding of the principles and values of Freemasonry. Here are some of the requirements for becoming a 33rd degree Mason:
- Have been a Master Mason for at least 14 years.
- Be active in Masonic affairs.
- Demonstrate exceptional leadership and service to the fraternity.
- Be recommended by fellow Masons.
- Undergo an extensive background check.
- Attend classes, lectures, and other events related to Freemasonry.
In addition to meeting these requirements, 33rd degree Masons are expected to follow the rules of the organization, uphold its principles and values, and serve as role models within their local lodges. They must also adhere to the regulations set forth by their Grand Lodge. Furthermore, 33rd degree Masons must remain in good standing with their lodge in order to maintain their status as members of the fraternity.
The process for becoming a 33rd degree Mason can be lengthy and difficult; however, it is ultimately an honor that recognizes those who have dedicated themselves to furthering Freemasonry’s cause. Those who successfully attain this level will be presented with a certificate acknowledging their achievement and will become part of an exclusive group that is respected throughout the Masonic world.
33rd Degree Mason Benefits
Being a 33rd degree Mason offers many benefits to members. Here are some of the advantages of being part of this illustrious brotherhood:
- Access to exclusive Masonic networks and resources
- Invitations to special events and programs only available to 33rd degree Masons
- Opportunities to give back to the community through charitable works
- Privileged access to ancient rituals and teachings that can help expand one’s knowledge and understanding of life and its mysteries
- Chance to develop relationships with other high-ranking Masons around the world
- The opportunity for personal growth through leadership roles in the organization
Masons who reach the highest level of membership may also receive special recognition from their peers, such as prestigious awards or honors. This recognition can be a great source of pride for those who have worked hard to reach this level. Additionally, 33rd degree Masons often gain unique perspectives on life due to their membership in a centuries-old organization that is steeped in history and tradition. Therefore, members may find that they are able to access exclusive resources within their communities that can help them achieve success in their own endeavors.
Being a 33rd degree Mason is an honor that carries with it many privileges, as well as responsibilities. Those who are willing to commit themselves fully to the organization can expect a rewarding experience that will enrich their lives in many ways. With dedication and hard work, any Mason can aspire to reach the highest levels of membership within this esteemed brotherhood.
33rd Degree Mason Symbols and Insignia
The 33rd degree of Freemasonry is the highest level a Mason can reach in the Scottish Rite. It is also one of the most mysterious and exclusive degrees, as it is only awarded to those who have shown exceptional service to their Masonic lodge and to the fraternity itself. As such, 33rd degree Masons are given special symbols and insignia that represent their high rank within the organization. Here are some of the most common symbols and insignia associated with this degree:
• The Double Headed Eagle: This is one of the oldest and most recognizable symbols associated with 33rd Degree Masons. It can also be seen on many Masonic buildings, including the House of the Temple in Washington D.C., which houses the Supreme Council of the Scottish Rite. The double headed eagle symbolizes strength, courage, and wisdom.
• The Compass and Square: Another iconic symbol used by 33rd degree Masons is that of a compass and square. This symbol represents a Mason’s commitment to knowledge, morality, and justice. It also serves as a reminder that each Mason should strive towards perfection in all things.
• The Sunburst: This symbol has been associated with Freemasonry since its earliest days. It serves as a reminder that each Mason should strive to be an example for others to follow. The sunburst also represents light, which is an essential part of any Masonic ritual.
• The Eye of Providence: This symbol can be found on many Masonic buildings around the world, as well as on some 33rd degree insignia. It is believed to represent God’s watchful eye over mankind, reminding us that He will always guide us if we allow Him to.
• The Triangle Within a Circle: This symbol appears on many Masonic emblems and is said to represent unity among Masons. It serves as a reminder that we must always strive for harmony within our lodges if we are ever going to achieve our goals.
These are just some of the symbols associated with 33rd Degree Masons. Each one has its own unique meaning that reminds us all about our commitment to our craft and our brotherhood.
History of the 33rd Degree of Freemasonry
The 33rd degree of Freemasonry is the highest degree attainable in the Scottish Rite branch of Freemasonry and is one of the most prestigious honors a Mason can receive. It is not an easy degree to attain and requires years of dedication and hard work. Those who are awarded this degree have demonstrated a commitment to Masonic principles and ideals, as well as a willingness to serve their fellow Masons.
The history of the 33rd Degree dates back to 1801, when Napoleon Bonaparte granted a patent to create the Supreme Council for France. This Supreme Council was made up of 33 high-ranking Masons, each with their own specialties in specific areas of Masonic teaching. This council was responsible for overseeing all aspects of the Scottish Rite in France and had representatives from other European countries.
Since then, other Supreme Councils have been formed around the world, including in England, Scotland, Ireland, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa. The 33rd Degree is only awarded by these Supreme Councils after a Mason has proven his dedication to Masonic principles over many years.
Those who receive this honor are often referred to as “Sovereign Grand Inspectors General” or “Grand Crosses”. The recipients are expected to act as mentors and guides for other Masons within their jurisdiction. They are also expected to be ambassadors for Freemasonry in general and promote its values wherever they go.
Achieving the 33rd Degree is an incredible accomplishment that is often marked with great ceremony and celebration by other members of the Lodge or Chapter where it was earned. In some cases, it may even be accompanied by special gifts or awards given out by the Supreme Council itself. It is truly an honor that few achieve but those who do should be proud of their accomplishments!
Famous 33rd Degree Masons
Freemasonry is an ancient society that has been in existence for centuries, and many of the world’s most influential people have been members. Among them are a select few who have achieved the highest degree in the Masonic order, the 33rd Degree. Here are some of the most famous 33rd degree Masons:
• President Franklin Delano Roosevelt was an active member of Freemasonry, and he rose to the 33rd Degree of Scottish Rite Masonry. He was also a member of Holland Lodge No 8 in New York City.
• John Kerry was a United States Senator from Massachusetts and Secretary of State from 2013 to 2017. He was awarded the 33rd Degree of Scottish Rite Masonry in 2011.
• Benjamin Franklin was a Founding Father who played an instrumental role during the American Revolution and in creating the United States Constitution. He was also a 33rd Degree Mason and even served as Grand Master of Pennsylvania’s Grand Lodge from 1734-1735.
• Buzz Aldrin is best known for being one half of the first human spaceflight mission to land on the Moon, along with Neil Armstrong. Aldrin is also a 33rd Degree Mason and served as Grand Master of California’s Grand Lodge from 2003-2004.
• Gerald Ford was President from 1974-1977 and before that he served as Vice President under Richard Nixon. He held numerous positions within Freemasonry, including being awarded with the 33rd Degree in 1962.
Current Number of 33rd Degree Masons
The number of 33rd Degree Masons is a closely guarded secret. This is due to the nature of the organization which is an exclusive fraternity with a secret membership. The exact number of 33rd Degree Masons is unknown, however it is estimated to be between 4,000 and 5,000 worldwide. The Supreme Council of the Scottish Rite has its headquarters in Washington D.C., and there are appendant bodies throughout the United States as well as many other countries.
33rd Degree Masons are part of a select group that has achieved the highest level of Freemasonry available to them in the Scottish Rite. To become a 33rd Degree Mason, one must first be a Master Mason and then go through further study and examinations in order to be considered for advancement to this degree.
The 33rd Degree Mason enjoys many benefits including exclusive access to special events, social gatherings and educational opportunities. They also have access to a vast network of fellow Freemasons who can provide support, guidance and mentorship. In addition, they gain experience in leadership roles within their local lodges as well as at the grand lodge level if they choose to pursue those paths.
The current number of 33rd Degree Masons may fluctuate slightly as new members are welcomed into the fraternity or existing members may choose to step down from their positions or pass away due to natural causes. However, this elite group remains highly respected within Freemasonry and continues to represent an important part of its legacy.
The Supreme Council
The Supreme Council is the governing body that administers the 33rd degree, the highest degree conferred in the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry. This degree is the highest honor available to a Freemason, and it symbolizes their commitment to upholding the ideals of the fraternity. The Supreme Council is made up of selected members from each state or jurisdiction who are given responsibility for ensuring that all activities related to Masonry are conducted properly.
Duties of The Supreme Council
The Supreme Council has several duties, which include:
• Promoting and encouraging Masonic education;
• Ensuring that all rituals and ceremonies are conducted correctly;
• Maintaining proper records of all Masonic activities;
• Advancing the cause of Masonry in their respective jurisdictions;
• Preserving and protecting the traditions and history of Freemasonry.
The Supreme Council also has a number of subcommittees that are responsible for specific tasks, such as research, charity, public relations, and more. Additionally, they oversee the election process for new members into higher degrees.
Membership Requirements
In order to become a member of The Supreme Council, one must first be a Master Mason in good standing within their particular jurisdiction. They must also demonstrate proficiency in their craft by passing an examination on Masonic law, ritual, philosophy, and history. After being elected as a member of The Supreme Council by other members in good standing, they will then be ceremonially initiated into this prestigious degree at a special ceremony presided over by an elected Grand Commander.
Benefits Of Membership
Membership in The Supreme Council offers many benefits including access to exclusive publications and resources related to Masonry as well as opportunities for fellowship with fellow Masons from around the world. Additionally, members have access to special events such as conferences and conventions held annually where they can network with other Masons from different jurisdictions who share similar interests or beliefs. Furthermore, they can participate in charitable works that help improve communities worldwide through their involvement with local lodges or other Masonic organizations.
Wrapping Up About How Many 33Rd Degree Masons Are There
In reflection, the exact number of 33rd degree Masons is unknown as the Scottish Rite is a private organization. However, it is estimated that there are about 50,000 33rd degree Masons in the United States alone. All of these individuals have achieved a high level of Freemasonry, and have dedicated their lives to helping others and advancing Freemasonry’s principles.
The 33rd degree is a prestigious honor that requires years of dedication and hard work to attain. Those who do become 33rd degree Masons must remain committed to their craft and continue to grow both in knowledge and in practice. The Order of Scottish Rite provides an incredible opportunity for advancement in Freemasonry and can be beneficial for those who wish to take their Masonic studies further.
We hope this article has provided some insight into how many 33rd degree Masons are out there and what it takes to achieve such a high level within Freemasonry. By continuing on the path of education and service, anyone can become a 33rd degree Mason one day.
Membership in The Supreme Council offers many benefits including access to exclusive publications and resources related to Masonry as well as opportunities for fellowship with fellow Masons from around the world. Additionally, members have access to special events such as conferences and conventions held annually where they can network with other Masons from different jurisdictions who share similar interests or beliefs. Furthermore, they can participate in charitable works that help improve communities worldwide through their involvement with local lodges or other Masonic organizations.