Recommended Books

The Kybalion: The Masterwork of Esoteric Wisdom for Living with Power Purpose

Author: Mitch Horowitz

“The Kybalion: The Masterwork of Esoteric Wisdom for Living with Power and Purpose is a modern presentation of the 1908 occult classic The Kybalion. It distills Hermetic philosophy into seven universal principles—mentalism, correspondence, vibration, polarity, rhythm, cause and effect, and gender—that explain how the universe works. The book’s message is that by understanding and applying these laws consciously, a person can gain greater control over their thoughts, emotions, and actions, aligning life with purpose, balance, and inner power.”

Mastering Masonry: The Comprehensive Guide to becoming a Mason

Author: Barrett Williams

“Mastering Masonry: The Comprehensive Guide to Becoming a Mason by Barrett Williams is a practical introduction to Freemasonry. It explains the history, values, rituals, degrees, and symbols of the fraternity, while also guiding prospective members on how to join, what to expect, and how to live by Masonic principles of brotherhood, morality, and self-improvement.”

The lost keys of Freemasonry or the secret of Hiram Abiff: Foundations of Freemasonry Series

Author: Manly P. Hall

“Hall presents Freemasonry not merely as a fraternal order, but as a spiritual path rooted in ancient wisdom traditions. Using the allegory of Hiram Abiff—the master builder of Solomon’s Temple who symbolizes sacrifice, integrity, and the search for truth—Hall reveals the deeper meaning behind Masonic rituals and symbols. He emphasizes that the true “lost keys” of Freemasonry are moral and spiritual virtues such as self-discipline, humility, and the pursuit of wisdom. The book links Masonic teachings to universal truths found in philosophy, religion, and mystery schools, showing that Masonry’s ultimate purpose is the building of the “inner temple”—the perfected human soul.”

The Craft: How the Freemasons Made the Modern World

Author: John Dickie

“Dickie traces how Freemasonry emerged in the early 18th century and quickly spread worldwide, shaping politics, science, and culture. He highlights its role in Enlightenment thought, revolutions, and the building of civic institutions, while also examining conspiracy theories and criticisms that have followed the fraternity. The book shows how Freemasonry blended ritual, secrecy, and brotherhood to become one of the most influential social movements in modern history.”

The Square and the Tower: Networks and Power, from the Freemasons to Facebook

Author: Niall Ferguson

“Ferguson contrasts hierarchical power structures (“the tower”) with informal networks (“the square”), arguing that networks have always influenced events as much as formal institutions. From the role of Freemasons in spreading Enlightenment ideas to the power of modern tech and social media networks, he shows how connections between people often determine revolutions, wars, and cultural change. The book ultimately suggests that understanding networks is key to understanding both past and present power dynamics.”

The Mysteries of Free Masonry Containing All the Degrees of the Order Conferred in a Master’s Lodge 

Author: William Morgan

“Published in 1826, Morgan’s book claims to reveal the rituals, degrees, and secret practices of Freemasonry, particularly those of the Master’s Lodge. Its release sparked outrage among Masons and is widely believed to have led to Morgan’s mysterious disappearance, which in turn ignited the Anti-Masonic movement in the United States. While critics debate the accuracy of the exposures, the book is significant as both a purported unveiling of Masonic rites and a catalyst for one of the earliest third-party political movements in American history.”

Albert Pike’s Esoterika: Symbolism of the Blue Degrees of Freemasonry

Author: Albert Pike

In this book, Pike, one of the most influential Masonic thinkers, explores the symbolism, philosophy, and esoteric meaning behind the rituals and symbols of the Blue Lodge. He connects Masonic teachings to classical philosophy, comparative religion, and ancient mystery traditions, showing that the Blue Degrees are not merely ceremonial but embody profound moral and spiritual lessons. Unlike his better-known Morals and Dogma, Esoterika focuses specifically on explaining how the allegories, tools, and symbols of the first degrees guide a Mason toward self-knowledge, virtue, and enlightenment.”

Masonic Perspectives: The Thoughts of a Grand Secretary

Author: Thomas Jackson

“Jackson shares insights on the purpose, philosophy, and challenges of modern Freemasonry, stressing that the fraternity’s real strength lies in its moral and spiritual teachings rather than its social or charitable roles. He critiques the decline of Masonic education and warns against focusing too much on numbers and public image at the expense of deeper understanding. The book emphasizes Freemasonry as a way of life—a path of character development, brotherhood, and personal responsibility—while urging Masons to return to the timeless values and lessons that made the Craft influential in the first place.”

A Pennsylvania Masonic Handbook: The Personal Ahiman Rezon

Author: Robert E. Burtt

“Burtt provides an accessible explanation of the rituals, symbols, history, and responsibilities of Freemasonry, tailored to the Pennsylvania jurisdiction’s traditions. Unlike the official Ahiman Rezon (the constitution of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania), this “personal” version is written in a more approachable style, helping members better understand the meaning behind their obligations, ceremonies, and Masonic conduct. The book aims to deepen a Mason’s appreciation of the Craft, encourage reflection on its moral lessons, and serve as a ready reference for personal study and growth within the fraternity.”