Eureka Reading List
Masonic ritual teaches us to be general lovers of the arts and sciences, particularly geometry or Masonry. As speculative Masons, and not operative, our purpose is to seek for truth, while Operative Masons were responsible for working each stone as a true stone, square, level and plumb to support those great edifices that they were directed to create. What does the term speculative mean?
Speculative means…
Pertaining to, the nature of, or characterized by speculation, contemplation, conjecture, or abstract reasoning
and…
Theoretical, rather than practical
…or simply to think and to study. Our obligations from our beginnings tell us to advance in our Freemasonry. That does not necessarily mean to rise to the position of a Worshipful Master or even to that of a Grand Master. We have to learn. Our tenet of Truth implies, personal growth and ethics. We learn the lessons of our fraternity through the degrees but that is just the catalyst which invites us to search beyond that initial foundation. And it must be a continuous learning experience; we are to be life long learners.
A Masonic library is a start to that search for more knowledge and understanding. The Eureka Reading List is a short and initial comprehensive catalog of books recommended for your consideration. The list was created by the Research Lodge in Calgary, Alberta. Masons who have studied for many years have found this list to be a good start in any Masonic student’s Masonic journey in search of more knowledge.
Remember always that books are written by brethren who offer their ideas and thoughts. No one speaks for Freemasonry, but we all can offer our ideas from the contemplation of books read.
May this list be the commencement of your interest into the fascinating realm of Freemasonry beyond the Ritual of the Craft. I recommend you to make the list a start of your Masonic library, and then use other Masonic Libraries close to you to research for further study.
Most importantly, you are always invited to present your thoughts having read on a topic so that you share with us your ideas with your brethren. Look beyond the trees.
S. Godfrey P.G.M.