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Method Infinite: Freemasonry and the Mormon Restoration
While no one thing can entirely explain the rise of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the historical influence of Freemasonry on this religious tradition cannot be refuted. Those who study Mormonism have been aware of the impact that Freemasonry had on the founding prophet Joseph Smith during the Nauvoo period, but his involvement in Freemasonry was arguably earlier and broader than many modern historians have admitted. The fact that the most obvious vestiges of Freemasonry are evident only in the more esoteric aspects of the Mormon faith has made it difficult to recognize, let alone fully grasp, the relevant issues. Even those with both Mormon and Masonic experience may not be versed in the nineteenth-century versions of Masonry's rituals, legends, and practices. Without this specialized background, it is easy to miss the Masonic significance of numerous early Mormon ordinances, scripture, and doctrines. Method Infinite: Freemasonry and the Mormon Restoration offers a fresh perspective on the Masonic thread present in Mormonism from its earliest days. Smith's firsthand knowledge of and experience with both Masonry and anti-Masonic currents contributed to the theology, structure, culture, tradition, history, literature, and ritual of the religion he founded.
531 pages, Hardcover
Published August 9, 2022
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August 3, 2022
As an English minor in college, I took a course on James Joyce’s Ulysses, aided by a commentary by Anthony Burgess, author of A Clockwork Orange. There were many things there I didn’t understand, but as a newly married and endowed member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, I was startled to see what appeared as a plagiarized excerpt from the LDS temple liturgy. Our professor, a Mormon, explained it as one of many references by Joyce to Freemasonry. There was also a wink to the handful of us in that class whom she knew were LDS. As a result, I was somewhat acquainted with the idea of Masonic influences on LDS temple ritual from my early adulthood.
In reading Method Infinite: Freemasonry and the Mormon Restoration by Cheryl Bruno, Joe Steve Swick III, and Nicholas Literski, I was prepared for an in-depth review of more of those references. What I was not prepared for was the avalanche of information about the parallels, direct influences, and obvious borrowing of ritual and symbolism that followed. Method Infinite is the culmination of decades of research and scholarship, a massive work of importance to understanding early Mormon history in the context of the time and places of the Restoration.
The last several decades of LDS Church history have shown both faithful members and non-believers that Joseph Smith did not create the church ex nihilo. Smith and other early church leaders lived, worked, and worshiped in an environment ripe with many influences. They lived lives on the edge of a developing nation, were well acquainted with other religious traditions, observed and occasionally dabbled in frontier folk magic, and viewed the world around them with sometimes apocalyptic symbolism. With an often limited access to formal education, they read, pondered the Bible, and taught themselves with whatever resources were available.
Freemasonry was one of those influences. It is easy to underestimate the role that Freemasonry played in the founding of the new United States. Many of the founding fathers themselves were Masons, attracted to Freemasonry’s Christian symbolism and principles of equality. These principles easily aligned with the ideals behind the creation of a new nation free from the aristocracy and class consciousness of England and the rest of Europe. Growing out of 15th and 16th century guilds in Europe, Freemasonry became a fraternity of opportunity that purported to have roots in ancient lore descending from the time of Solomon’s temple, where members, regardless of their outside lives, participated equally in “…a system of morality veiled in allegory and illustrated by symbols.” [p 449]
Method Infinite’s authors bring the insider perspective of both the LDS Church and Masonry. Swick and Literski are both Master Masons with advanced degrees in the Craft, and with Bruno, are also scholars steeped in Mormon history. Together, they have completed the most comprehensive treatment of the parallels and direct Masonic influences on the founding of the LDS Church to date. When I described this as an avalanche of information, I will admit to feeling a bit overwhelmed early on in my reading. According to the authors, Masonic influences and symbols are everywhere in the founding of the Church. They point to parallels in the visit of Moroni to Joseph Smith in 1823, in the coming forth of the Book of Mormon, Joseph Smith’s dabbling in treasure seeking, and many other aspects of early Church history. I found myself on a few occasions wondering whether Bruno, Swick, and Literski were arguing that Smith was creating some kind of ΰber-masonry, or restoring the primitive Christianity described in the literature of the restoration. But bit by bit, the thesis of Method Infinite became clearer to me. By the time the book reaches the Nauvoo period and the creation of the Nauvoo temple and its rituals, the bigger picture came into focus for me.
Joseph Smith saw Freemasonry as ancient and authentic. He saw in it how symbols and ritual were powerful means of relating important truths and inspiring the participants involved. He was “…comfortable and skilled with the Masonic ritual style and populated the temple with a ceremony supporting his views on priesthood. He tapped into the emotion of legend and began to recover real truths about the human soul…to transform and elevate Masonic ritual into ordinances holding divine, salvific power.” [p 350]
The authors argue that Smith also sought to provide a more inclusive role for women, modeled on similar principles of morality and service found in male-only Freemasonry. Barred from direct participation in Masonic lodges, the Nauvoo Relief Society began, in his vision, as an extension of many of Freemasonry’s elements to a women’s organization. The authors argue that similar principles extended to such other efforts as the organization of the Danites as a means of protection for the Saints, or the theocratic ambitions of the Council of 50. In all of these, Smith used oaths, covenants, a commitment to defend each other, and as necessary, vows of secrecy. These were designed, they argue, to achieve his goal of forging direct links between mortality and the very powers of Heaven. Freemasonry provided a template for him in bringing about a restoration of principles of the original Christian church. In a similar vein, Freemasons are seeking "that which is lost,” or “the Master’s Word,” a reference to the secrets lost in ancient times. Smith also envisioned his temple rituals, initially for a select group, to be available for everyone willing to covenant and and assist in binding heaven on earth. The Mormon Masonic lodges in and around Nauvoo included at one time more than one thousand members, a far larger number than in any other area of Illinois where Masonic lodges were established. It was for Smith a means of preparing his people to recognize and achieve their ultimate divine potential.
To be honest, there are still elements in Method Infinite that felt more like coincidence than direct influences, but in most cases the authors labeled them as such. One such example that the authors clearly indicated as an unintentional parallel were the similarities between the deaths of Joseph and Hyrum Smith at the hands of assassins and the Masonic legend of the death of Hiram Abiff, whom Masons believe was the chief architect of Solomon’s Temple. This chapter carries those startling but clearly coincidental elements for 25 pages, interesting but perhaps a bit too long under the circumstances. I was also reminded of some of the criticism of Hugh Nibley’s practice of drawing parallels between LDS theology and ancient cultures, which some felt were selectively presented or too broadly drawn. Method Infinite seems likely to attract some of that same criticism. For those who may feel, as I did at times, that the authors may have taken this project too far, this quote from a writer on Masonic rituals may help:
“There is scarcely a single element in Free Masonry, but we find its corresponding rite in one or other of the idolatrous mysteries; and the coincidence can only be accounted for by supposing that these mysteries were derived from Masonry”
The authors then add, “Of course, Masonry might have derived from “Idolatrous mysteries” rather than the other way round…” [p155]
Perhaps it is unfair to read and render in a few weeks an opinion on what took the authors many years of exhaustive research to produce. Some of what was borrowed from Freemasonry in the early church has since been removed from the temple liturgy, including the words from Ulysses that piqued my interest back in college. Yet I came away with a better understanding of the obvious links that remain, where they came from, and why misunderstanding has led to denial and confusion on the topic.
I should point out that the authors exercised restraint and respect for both Mormon and Masonic rituals and practices. They have not violated oaths to hold these elements secret or sacred. Sensitive topics are referenced via previously published materials and archives open to the public, and the authors have avoided sensationalism. This is a serious work of scholarship, and the authors are to be applauded for their approach. Not everyone will be interested in Method Infinite, and not all will agree with the author’s conclusions. Method Infinite however, is the most complete treatment yet of a poorly understood and controversial topic. It will likely promote more debate and scholarship, but clearly marks a milestone in early LDS Church history.
In reading Method Infinite: Freemasonry and the Mormon Restoration by Cheryl Bruno, Joe Steve Swick III, and Nicholas Literski, I was prepared for an in-depth review of more of those references. What I was not prepared for was the avalanche of information about the parallels, direct influences, and obvious borrowing of ritual and symbolism that followed. Method Infinite is the culmination of decades of research and scholarship, a massive work of importance to understanding early Mormon history in the context of the time and places of the Restoration.
The last several decades of LDS Church history have shown both faithful members and non-believers that Joseph Smith did not create the church ex nihilo. Smith and other early church leaders lived, worked, and worshiped in an environment ripe with many influences. They lived lives on the edge of a developing nation, were well acquainted with other religious traditions, observed and occasionally dabbled in frontier folk magic, and viewed the world around them with sometimes apocalyptic symbolism. With an often limited access to formal education, they read, pondered the Bible, and taught themselves with whatever resources were available.
Freemasonry was one of those influences. It is easy to underestimate the role that Freemasonry played in the founding of the new United States. Many of the founding fathers themselves were Masons, attracted to Freemasonry’s Christian symbolism and principles of equality. These principles easily aligned with the ideals behind the creation of a new nation free from the aristocracy and class consciousness of England and the rest of Europe. Growing out of 15th and 16th century guilds in Europe, Freemasonry became a fraternity of opportunity that purported to have roots in ancient lore descending from the time of Solomon’s temple, where members, regardless of their outside lives, participated equally in “…a system of morality veiled in allegory and illustrated by symbols.” [p 449]
Method Infinite’s authors bring the insider perspective of both the LDS Church and Masonry. Swick and Literski are both Master Masons with advanced degrees in the Craft, and with Bruno, are also scholars steeped in Mormon history. Together, they have completed the most comprehensive treatment of the parallels and direct Masonic influences on the founding of the LDS Church to date. When I described this as an avalanche of information, I will admit to feeling a bit overwhelmed early on in my reading. According to the authors, Masonic influences and symbols are everywhere in the founding of the Church. They point to parallels in the visit of Moroni to Joseph Smith in 1823, in the coming forth of the Book of Mormon, Joseph Smith’s dabbling in treasure seeking, and many other aspects of early Church history. I found myself on a few occasions wondering whether Bruno, Swick, and Literski were arguing that Smith was creating some kind of ΰber-masonry, or restoring the primitive Christianity described in the literature of the restoration. But bit by bit, the thesis of Method Infinite became clearer to me. By the time the book reaches the Nauvoo period and the creation of the Nauvoo temple and its rituals, the bigger picture came into focus for me.
Joseph Smith saw Freemasonry as ancient and authentic. He saw in it how symbols and ritual were powerful means of relating important truths and inspiring the participants involved. He was “…comfortable and skilled with the Masonic ritual style and populated the temple with a ceremony supporting his views on priesthood. He tapped into the emotion of legend and began to recover real truths about the human soul…to transform and elevate Masonic ritual into ordinances holding divine, salvific power.” [p 350]
The authors argue that Smith also sought to provide a more inclusive role for women, modeled on similar principles of morality and service found in male-only Freemasonry. Barred from direct participation in Masonic lodges, the Nauvoo Relief Society began, in his vision, as an extension of many of Freemasonry’s elements to a women’s organization. The authors argue that similar principles extended to such other efforts as the organization of the Danites as a means of protection for the Saints, or the theocratic ambitions of the Council of 50. In all of these, Smith used oaths, covenants, a commitment to defend each other, and as necessary, vows of secrecy. These were designed, they argue, to achieve his goal of forging direct links between mortality and the very powers of Heaven. Freemasonry provided a template for him in bringing about a restoration of principles of the original Christian church. In a similar vein, Freemasons are seeking "that which is lost,” or “the Master’s Word,” a reference to the secrets lost in ancient times. Smith also envisioned his temple rituals, initially for a select group, to be available for everyone willing to covenant and and assist in binding heaven on earth. The Mormon Masonic lodges in and around Nauvoo included at one time more than one thousand members, a far larger number than in any other area of Illinois where Masonic lodges were established. It was for Smith a means of preparing his people to recognize and achieve their ultimate divine potential.
To be honest, there are still elements in Method Infinite that felt more like coincidence than direct influences, but in most cases the authors labeled them as such. One such example that the authors clearly indicated as an unintentional parallel were the similarities between the deaths of Joseph and Hyrum Smith at the hands of assassins and the Masonic legend of the death of Hiram Abiff, whom Masons believe was the chief architect of Solomon’s Temple. This chapter carries those startling but clearly coincidental elements for 25 pages, interesting but perhaps a bit too long under the circumstances. I was also reminded of some of the criticism of Hugh Nibley’s practice of drawing parallels between LDS theology and ancient cultures, which some felt were selectively presented or too broadly drawn. Method Infinite seems likely to attract some of that same criticism. For those who may feel, as I did at times, that the authors may have taken this project too far, this quote from a writer on Masonic rituals may help:
“There is scarcely a single element in Free Masonry, but we find its corresponding rite in one or other of the idolatrous mysteries; and the coincidence can only be accounted for by supposing that these mysteries were derived from Masonry”
The authors then add, “Of course, Masonry might have derived from “Idolatrous mysteries” rather than the other way round…” [p155]
Perhaps it is unfair to read and render in a few weeks an opinion on what took the authors many years of exhaustive research to produce. Some of what was borrowed from Freemasonry in the early church has since been removed from the temple liturgy, including the words from Ulysses that piqued my interest back in college. Yet I came away with a better understanding of the obvious links that remain, where they came from, and why misunderstanding has led to denial and confusion on the topic.
I should point out that the authors exercised restraint and respect for both Mormon and Masonic rituals and practices. They have not violated oaths to hold these elements secret or sacred. Sensitive topics are referenced via previously published materials and archives open to the public, and the authors have avoided sensationalism. This is a serious work of scholarship, and the authors are to be applauded for their approach. Not everyone will be interested in Method Infinite, and not all will agree with the author’s conclusions. Method Infinite however, is the most complete treatment yet of a poorly understood and controversial topic. It will likely promote more debate and scholarship, but clearly marks a milestone in early LDS Church history.
October 1, 2022
"There is method in Mormonism—method infinite," wrote Eliza R. Snow, an influential Relief Society General President and plural wife of Joseph Smith. "Mormonism is Masonic," she concluded. Indeed, this new volume identifies Freemason gems that Joseph Smith, an actively practicing Mason, mined to adorn the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and other restoration branches. Such gems include restoration of "that which was lost," the Grand Council of Heaven, the eternity of matter, the chain of belonging, dispensation heads, and oath-bound rituals to impart greater light and knowledge to those seeking to progress through degrees. Latter-day Saints assigned Christian meanings to Masonic handclasps and symbols, including aprons, squares, compasses, and knocks. Joseph and Hyrum Smith's adoption of Masonic symbols and ceremonies may have contributed to their murders by a mob consisting of Masons and disaffected members, among others. In Utah Territory, Brigham Young and other leaders distanced themselves from Masonic roots until the origin of the rituals and symbols became obscured. Authors Cheryl L. Bruno, Joe Steve Swick III, and Nicholas S. Literski have immersed themselves in the various Freemason and restoration histories and are respectful to all.
March 3, 2022
This is perhaps one of the most important books published in the past few decades on understanding Joseph Smith and early Mormonism. While most discussions of Freemasonry and Mormonism focus on the shared lodge/temple rituals, the authors here show just how much Freemasonry was influencing Joseph Smith from the very beginning.
October 21, 2022
There's a lot of books and articles that have attempted to make parallels with Mormonism and Masonry. This is the only one I've found that combines a deep and nuanced knowledge of the best current Mormon History/Mormon Studies Scholarship (including using the most recent Joseph Smith Papers documents), experience as a practicing Mason, deep understanding of relevent 19th Century historical/religious developments, and especially how specific aspects of 19th Century Masonry (practice, language, and perspective) was developing and interacting with multiple aspects of society.
This is an exploration of how deeply 19th Century Masonic ideas were interwoven and influential from the very beginning of Joseph Smith's life, and how they interacted, informed, and challenged his developing Church, Scripture, and world of religious ideas.
This isn't a book of surface Parallels, or a Latter-day Saint Temple exposé, or for that manner, a Masonic exposé. In fact, I was surprised at how well the book navigated respectfully (and usefully!) the exploration of key material considered sensitive from both Masonic and Latter-day Saint ritual.
I consider myself significantly well-read when it comes to scholarship and primary sources relating to Latter-day Saint/Mormon history. This book re-framed many of the events and episodes, statements and practices from history that I knew DID happen, and presented for the first time, a consistent and thorough explanation of WHY they happened the way they did. It really did feel like some missing puzzle pieces came into view that had been hiding in plain sight.
I don't see how any serious scholar working on the early development of Latter-day Saint writings, teachings, beliefs and practices can go forward without taking this book's arguments and evidence into consideration. The descriptor 'Game Changer' is often thrown around, but this one legitimately earns it.
This is an exploration of how deeply 19th Century Masonic ideas were interwoven and influential from the very beginning of Joseph Smith's life, and how they interacted, informed, and challenged his developing Church, Scripture, and world of religious ideas.
This isn't a book of surface Parallels, or a Latter-day Saint Temple exposé, or for that manner, a Masonic exposé. In fact, I was surprised at how well the book navigated respectfully (and usefully!) the exploration of key material considered sensitive from both Masonic and Latter-day Saint ritual.
I consider myself significantly well-read when it comes to scholarship and primary sources relating to Latter-day Saint/Mormon history. This book re-framed many of the events and episodes, statements and practices from history that I knew DID happen, and presented for the first time, a consistent and thorough explanation of WHY they happened the way they did. It really did feel like some missing puzzle pieces came into view that had been hiding in plain sight.
I don't see how any serious scholar working on the early development of Latter-day Saint writings, teachings, beliefs and practices can go forward without taking this book's arguments and evidence into consideration. The descriptor 'Game Changer' is often thrown around, but this one legitimately earns it.
September 1, 2022
THE definitive take on Mason and Mormons.
Having grown up around Mormons, and then later joining the LDS church for about a decade, I have a general knowledge of Mormon history, and a little knowledge of Freemasonry from family members who were Masons. What I didn't understand is the multitudinous connections between the two traditions.
Not only is this volume a fascinating contribution to religious history in general - it contributes to our knowledge of the connections between the two, explained clearly, and backed by ample documentary evidence.
While this book is far from concise at over 500 pages, it is far more engaging than any other history book I've read. I love non-fiction, but to have it presented in a way that makes Dan Brown look a bit boring, made it easy to read Method Infinite like I would a novel.
Most people who have looked at the LDS church know there are similarities between Mormon rituals and masonic ceremonies, but Bruno, Swick, and Literski clearly demonstrate that Joseph Smith didn't just take inspiration from masonic rites -- he adapted many masonic myths and practices as he created a uniquely American take on Christianity during the Second Great Awakening, drawing devout followers and creating an enduring institution.
If you have an interest in America's religious history, you need to read this book.
Having grown up around Mormons, and then later joining the LDS church for about a decade, I have a general knowledge of Mormon history, and a little knowledge of Freemasonry from family members who were Masons. What I didn't understand is the multitudinous connections between the two traditions.
Not only is this volume a fascinating contribution to religious history in general - it contributes to our knowledge of the connections between the two, explained clearly, and backed by ample documentary evidence.
While this book is far from concise at over 500 pages, it is far more engaging than any other history book I've read. I love non-fiction, but to have it presented in a way that makes Dan Brown look a bit boring, made it easy to read Method Infinite like I would a novel.
Most people who have looked at the LDS church know there are similarities between Mormon rituals and masonic ceremonies, but Bruno, Swick, and Literski clearly demonstrate that Joseph Smith didn't just take inspiration from masonic rites -- he adapted many masonic myths and practices as he created a uniquely American take on Christianity during the Second Great Awakening, drawing devout followers and creating an enduring institution.
If you have an interest in America's religious history, you need to read this book.
April 5, 2024
Method Infinite has a mostly-impressive bibliography to support a lot of the history that it displays to the reader. There is a wealth of fact and information therein contained that would be beneficial to Latter-day Saints, to Freemasons, and to the general public.
As full of fact as this volume may be, however, it is almost equally full of speculation, many times presented as fact. In addition, individual interpretations of Masonic emblems, symbols, or practices are often misrepresented as authoritative. This volume also unfortunately misrepresents the opinion-pieces of some sources as if they were relevant or authoritative (works of Manly P. Hall, for example, are cited concerning Masonic topics, regardless of the fact that Hall had no firsthand knowledge/experience in Masonry at the time that his cited works were published). This volume also omits basics in its introductory description of Masonry, such as discounting Red Lodges in the USA (p. 3) as well as the existence of Prince Hall Affiliated Grand Lodge jurisdictions (p. 4). The authors also make broad claims about Masonry at times that are not always applicable to every Grand Lodge jurisdiction.
I caution the reader to investigate all claims therein for themselves, whether concerning the Church, Freemasonry, or any other entity described therein. For interpretations of all things Masonic and for what constitutes Masonry, the only authoritative sources will be legitimate Grand Lodges, each within its respective jurisdiction.
As full of fact as this volume may be, however, it is almost equally full of speculation, many times presented as fact. In addition, individual interpretations of Masonic emblems, symbols, or practices are often misrepresented as authoritative. This volume also unfortunately misrepresents the opinion-pieces of some sources as if they were relevant or authoritative (works of Manly P. Hall, for example, are cited concerning Masonic topics, regardless of the fact that Hall had no firsthand knowledge/experience in Masonry at the time that his cited works were published). This volume also omits basics in its introductory description of Masonry, such as discounting Red Lodges in the USA (p. 3) as well as the existence of Prince Hall Affiliated Grand Lodge jurisdictions (p. 4). The authors also make broad claims about Masonry at times that are not always applicable to every Grand Lodge jurisdiction.
I caution the reader to investigate all claims therein for themselves, whether concerning the Church, Freemasonry, or any other entity described therein. For interpretations of all things Masonic and for what constitutes Masonry, the only authoritative sources will be legitimate Grand Lodges, each within its respective jurisdiction.
August 19, 2022
The recently-published Method Infinite: Freemasonry and the Mormon Restoration by Cheryl L. Bruno, Joe Steve Swick III, and Nicholas S. Literski (Greg Kofford Books, 2022) is an insightful and information-packed volume about a plethora of possible points of contact between Freemasonry and the Restoration of the Church of Christ.
While many studies of Masonry and the Latter Day Saint movement focus primarily on temple rituals, Method Infinite covers the entirety of Joseph Smith’s life and follows the influence of Masonic ideas and rituals into some of the major branches of Mormonism that emerged in the aftermath of the Prophet’s death. The book starts with a brief history of Freemasonry and its existence in the early United States of America, then discusses how Joseph Smith grew up in an environment saturated with Freemasonry. It points to ideas that were being discussed or practiced by Freemasons and compares these with strains of Latter Day Saint thought and action, suggesting that Joseph Smith saw himself as the restorer of the pure form of Masonry from the outset and that he viewed the Freemasonry practiced at the time as an apostate or spurious form of Masonry. Evidences for this idea that are pointed out have to do with the Book of Mormon and the Book of Abraham, the way various organizations within or connected to the Church were organized, specific teachings of Joseph Smith and other early Church leaders, the ways that the City of Nauvoo was organized politically and religiously, and in temple rituals. The closest I’ve seen any study of the intersection of Masonry and Mormonism come to what this book achieves is Michael Homer’s Joseph’s Temples: The Dynamic Relationship between Freemasonry and Mormonism (University of Utah Press, 2014), though that one doesn’t go as deeply into some of the areas of intersection that Method Infinite brings up outside of the temple rituals. An incredible amount of information and analysis is presented in Method Infinite, and I have to say that I had a fair amount of “ah-ha” moments while reading.
As a Latter-day Saint, it can be disconcerting to look at the possibility that Joseph Smith was influenced by Freemasonry because it opens up questions of whether Joseph Smith was acting under God’s instructions or whether he was cobblinging together ideas that he liked from other groups to make his own religion (at least that’s how I’ve felt while reading about Masonry and the Church). This book approaches the issue from the perspective that the reality is somewhere in the middle, including the scriptures that Joseph Smith translated, which may be an idea that is uncomfortable for some readers. That being said, I did have a lot of moments while reading the book where what they shared helped me make sense of aspects of what Latter Day Saints believed and did in the early days of the Church. As an example of this, one most interesting to me was how the Danites (or whatever name you want to use) were essentially intended to function as a secret Mason-like order that was used to coordinate on protection of the Saints. The history of that organization was explored, pointing out how widespread it was among the Latter Day Saints in Missouri and how aspects of it survived in Nauvoo, even if it wasn’t as overt as it had been during the Missouri-Mormon War. With everything that the book discusses, though, I would say that my main complaint was that the book made efforts to cover so much ground that it sometimes blazed through topics faster and with less depth than I would have liked. At 509 pages, though, I can very much see that there was a need for concise discussions to get through everything they wanted to discuss.
Overall, I found Method Infinite: Freemasonry and the Mormon Restoration by Cheryl L. Bruno, Joe Steve Swick III, and Nicholas S. Literski (Greg Kofford Books, 2022) to be a fascinating read and would recommend it to scholars and others interested in gaining a deeper understanding of both 19th century American Freemasonry and the early Latter Day Saint movement.
While many studies of Masonry and the Latter Day Saint movement focus primarily on temple rituals, Method Infinite covers the entirety of Joseph Smith’s life and follows the influence of Masonic ideas and rituals into some of the major branches of Mormonism that emerged in the aftermath of the Prophet’s death. The book starts with a brief history of Freemasonry and its existence in the early United States of America, then discusses how Joseph Smith grew up in an environment saturated with Freemasonry. It points to ideas that were being discussed or practiced by Freemasons and compares these with strains of Latter Day Saint thought and action, suggesting that Joseph Smith saw himself as the restorer of the pure form of Masonry from the outset and that he viewed the Freemasonry practiced at the time as an apostate or spurious form of Masonry. Evidences for this idea that are pointed out have to do with the Book of Mormon and the Book of Abraham, the way various organizations within or connected to the Church were organized, specific teachings of Joseph Smith and other early Church leaders, the ways that the City of Nauvoo was organized politically and religiously, and in temple rituals. The closest I’ve seen any study of the intersection of Masonry and Mormonism come to what this book achieves is Michael Homer’s Joseph’s Temples: The Dynamic Relationship between Freemasonry and Mormonism (University of Utah Press, 2014), though that one doesn’t go as deeply into some of the areas of intersection that Method Infinite brings up outside of the temple rituals. An incredible amount of information and analysis is presented in Method Infinite, and I have to say that I had a fair amount of “ah-ha” moments while reading.
As a Latter-day Saint, it can be disconcerting to look at the possibility that Joseph Smith was influenced by Freemasonry because it opens up questions of whether Joseph Smith was acting under God’s instructions or whether he was cobblinging together ideas that he liked from other groups to make his own religion (at least that’s how I’ve felt while reading about Masonry and the Church). This book approaches the issue from the perspective that the reality is somewhere in the middle, including the scriptures that Joseph Smith translated, which may be an idea that is uncomfortable for some readers. That being said, I did have a lot of moments while reading the book where what they shared helped me make sense of aspects of what Latter Day Saints believed and did in the early days of the Church. As an example of this, one most interesting to me was how the Danites (or whatever name you want to use) were essentially intended to function as a secret Mason-like order that was used to coordinate on protection of the Saints. The history of that organization was explored, pointing out how widespread it was among the Latter Day Saints in Missouri and how aspects of it survived in Nauvoo, even if it wasn’t as overt as it had been during the Missouri-Mormon War. With everything that the book discusses, though, I would say that my main complaint was that the book made efforts to cover so much ground that it sometimes blazed through topics faster and with less depth than I would have liked. At 509 pages, though, I can very much see that there was a need for concise discussions to get through everything they wanted to discuss.
Overall, I found Method Infinite: Freemasonry and the Mormon Restoration by Cheryl L. Bruno, Joe Steve Swick III, and Nicholas S. Literski (Greg Kofford Books, 2022) to be a fascinating read and would recommend it to scholars and others interested in gaining a deeper understanding of both 19th century American Freemasonry and the early Latter Day Saint movement.
May 7, 2023
"Method Infinite" is the second book I've read about the relationship between Masonry and Mormonism - the first being Michael Homer's "Joseph's Temples." "Method Infinite" is an excellent companion book and one that covers the relationship much more thoroughly. The central argument of "Method Infinite" is that Freemasonry influenced Mormonism much more than has been commonly recognized - and that it wasn't just a Nauvoo era influence but one that influenced Joseph Smith throughout the entire Restoration period.
The authors - three of them LDS or former LDS members and two of them Freemasons - draw liberally on the documentary record about Masonry to explain the similarities between the Restored Gospel and Freemasonry. While Masonry today retains much of its earlier symbolism, it is today a much more secularized version of an earlier much more explicitly religious and Christian dual mystical and rational tradition. Today's version of Masonry, the authors mention briefly at the end, changed compared to its earlier version largely as a response to the influence of political anti-Masonry in the 1820s and 1830s.
The authors briefly overview the system of Freemasonry in the first chapter, thoroughly explain the local context of Masonry in Joseph Smith's family and their neighborhood in the second chapter, and describe the story and impact of the death of William Morgan on Masons and anti-masonry in the third chapter. From the fourth chapter on, they chronologically review episodes from the life of Joseph Smith where Masonry may have had an influence, starting with the First Vision.
On the one hand, their treatment sometimes seems too much like parallelomania - I wasn't entirely convinced that Masonry was as thorough an influence on everything as suggested, especially to the extent that Freemasonry, the Bible, and the Christianity of Joseph Smith's time share similar traditions. I found myself wishing that the authors had made more careful arguments in some cases and that they had more carefully critiqued the use of sources from disparate time periods (including some sources dating to decades after the events).
On the other hand, the way the authors explained the potential influence of Freemasonry from a wide perspective - rather than making more narrowly targeted arguments around the instances where Masonry's influence is most supportable - means that a better overall picture emerges of the potential Masonic backdrop to Mormonism. And that overall picture is itself quite convincing, even if some of the lines of arguments are by themselves less convincing. While the influence of Masonry is obviously most compelling for the Nauvoo period, "Method Infinite" effectively argues that Masonry's influence was pervasive prior to Nauvoo as well.
The Book of Abraham is a good example of this, with Joseph Smith's reading of the papyri fragments and facsimiles, including his Egyptian Grammar and Alphabet, drawing on a vocabulary of "keywords" and "signs" and Masonic symbols, and possibly on other Masonic elements, including orders/degrees. The Masonic use of veils in ceremonies was also echoed as early as the Kirtland temple period. And the Danites, much like the Masons, were a secretive, oathbound organization using signs, handshakes, and penalties. Add to this the many Masonic elements of the Nauvoo period and one gets a much better overview of Masonry as a general influence and backdrop to the Restorationism of Joseph Smith. (And I haven't even mentioned here the potential influences underlying the coming forth of the Book of Mormon, the "keystone" of the Restoration).
"Method Infinite" is one of several academic works that calls for a revision to traditional understandings of revelation - from the more conservative/Protestant oracular model that most LDS members culturally align with to a model that is truer to reality and that embraces the syncretic nature of the Restoration. Drawing from a variety of traditions and influences, Joseph Smith nonetheless sought for "truth wherever it may be found." And as Bruno, Swick, and Literski show so well, one of those influences that Joseph Smith drew from throughout his life was Masonry.
The authors - three of them LDS or former LDS members and two of them Freemasons - draw liberally on the documentary record about Masonry to explain the similarities between the Restored Gospel and Freemasonry. While Masonry today retains much of its earlier symbolism, it is today a much more secularized version of an earlier much more explicitly religious and Christian dual mystical and rational tradition. Today's version of Masonry, the authors mention briefly at the end, changed compared to its earlier version largely as a response to the influence of political anti-Masonry in the 1820s and 1830s.
The authors briefly overview the system of Freemasonry in the first chapter, thoroughly explain the local context of Masonry in Joseph Smith's family and their neighborhood in the second chapter, and describe the story and impact of the death of William Morgan on Masons and anti-masonry in the third chapter. From the fourth chapter on, they chronologically review episodes from the life of Joseph Smith where Masonry may have had an influence, starting with the First Vision.
On the one hand, their treatment sometimes seems too much like parallelomania - I wasn't entirely convinced that Masonry was as thorough an influence on everything as suggested, especially to the extent that Freemasonry, the Bible, and the Christianity of Joseph Smith's time share similar traditions. I found myself wishing that the authors had made more careful arguments in some cases and that they had more carefully critiqued the use of sources from disparate time periods (including some sources dating to decades after the events).
On the other hand, the way the authors explained the potential influence of Freemasonry from a wide perspective - rather than making more narrowly targeted arguments around the instances where Masonry's influence is most supportable - means that a better overall picture emerges of the potential Masonic backdrop to Mormonism. And that overall picture is itself quite convincing, even if some of the lines of arguments are by themselves less convincing. While the influence of Masonry is obviously most compelling for the Nauvoo period, "Method Infinite" effectively argues that Masonry's influence was pervasive prior to Nauvoo as well.
The Book of Abraham is a good example of this, with Joseph Smith's reading of the papyri fragments and facsimiles, including his Egyptian Grammar and Alphabet, drawing on a vocabulary of "keywords" and "signs" and Masonic symbols, and possibly on other Masonic elements, including orders/degrees. The Masonic use of veils in ceremonies was also echoed as early as the Kirtland temple period. And the Danites, much like the Masons, were a secretive, oathbound organization using signs, handshakes, and penalties. Add to this the many Masonic elements of the Nauvoo period and one gets a much better overview of Masonry as a general influence and backdrop to the Restorationism of Joseph Smith. (And I haven't even mentioned here the potential influences underlying the coming forth of the Book of Mormon, the "keystone" of the Restoration).
"Method Infinite" is one of several academic works that calls for a revision to traditional understandings of revelation - from the more conservative/Protestant oracular model that most LDS members culturally align with to a model that is truer to reality and that embraces the syncretic nature of the Restoration. Drawing from a variety of traditions and influences, Joseph Smith nonetheless sought for "truth wherever it may be found." And as Bruno, Swick, and Literski show so well, one of those influences that Joseph Smith drew from throughout his life was Masonry.
May 17, 2023
Fascinating book! I got through 60-75% of it fairly quickly, but then I got distracted and overwhelmed by the amount of information it presented and that I likely wasn’t retaining. Some of the comparisons to masonry seemed a bit of a stretch, but undoubtedly so much of Mormonism (not just the temple) was influenced by this 19th century practice. This knowledge doesn’t cheapen the religion for me, but gives depth to it.
June 20, 2023
Ch 1-3 overview freemasonry, the Smith family’s involvement in the early 1820s, and the decline of masonry following the William Morgan scandal in 1826. Ch 4-10 highlight parallels between masonry and early Mormonism. For example, Nephi’s beheading of Laban parallels the beheading of Hiram Abiff’s assassin.
Method Infinite hits its stride, though, in Ch 11 when discussing the establishment of the Masonic lodge in Nauvoo. I was fascinated to learn about the friction between Mormon Masons and the more traditional Masons over the rapid growth of the Nauvoo lodge and the incorporation of Masonic elements into LDS ritual. I was surprised to learn that the establishment of the Relief Society happened *one day* after JS was initiated and raised a Mason—and in the same space above the Red Brick store. The RS was initiated to be a female Masonic society.
Method Infinite hits its stride, though, in Ch 11 when discussing the establishment of the Masonic lodge in Nauvoo. I was fascinated to learn about the friction between Mormon Masons and the more traditional Masons over the rapid growth of the Nauvoo lodge and the incorporation of Masonic elements into LDS ritual. I was surprised to learn that the establishment of the Relief Society happened *one day* after JS was initiated and raised a Mason—and in the same space above the Red Brick store. The RS was initiated to be a female Masonic society.
October 8, 2022
This book underwhelmed. Lots of information on masonry, but the author's application of said information was stretched and tenuous. While better than any book I've read on Mormon and Masonry, I felt that Masonry was forced on Mormonism in more ways than actually was used/copied. Still, a good read for those who've never dabbled in the subject. (4 stars for the amount of research, 3 for the application of said research)
August 9, 2023
Incredible. I’ve not read a book that shifts my view of Mormon origins this much since Rough Stone Rolling. The uncovering and exploration of the Masonic influences on Joseph Smith from his earliest days is thorough and compelling. The authors make a strong case for the influence of Masonry on every aspect of Smith’s restoration, from doctrine to scripture to temple ceremony to administrative and organizational structure. They argue that his goal in founding Mormonism was to restore the true form of Masonry that had become corrupted. A beautifully-written and game-changing study that sheds historical and cultural light on the origins of Mormonism and needs to be reckoned with by anyone who is serious about understanding how Joseph Smith conceptualized and founded the Mormon faith tradition.
May 9, 2024
Published 2022, 450 pages of text.
An exceptional volume—exactly the synthesis I have been waiting for scholars to produce. My years and years of background reading on both of these subjects allowed me to completely comprehend the historical setting and contents set forth by the authors.
Joseph Smith, like many masons of his day, believed that an ancient, pristine form of Freemasonry had become apostate. He believed he had found “that which was lost,” enabling him to restore both true religion and pure Masonry to the earth. page 442
Because the masonic connection within many of the church organizations that Joseph Smith created has been lost, it is sometimes difficult to understand their meaning and purpose. Every institution set up by Smith may be seen as an experimentation with Masonic form. page 444
An exceptional volume—exactly the synthesis I have been waiting for scholars to produce. My years and years of background reading on both of these subjects allowed me to completely comprehend the historical setting and contents set forth by the authors.
Joseph Smith, like many masons of his day, believed that an ancient, pristine form of Freemasonry had become apostate. He believed he had found “that which was lost,” enabling him to restore both true religion and pure Masonry to the earth. page 442
Because the masonic connection within many of the church organizations that Joseph Smith created has been lost, it is sometimes difficult to understand their meaning and purpose. Every institution set up by Smith may be seen as an experimentation with Masonic form. page 444
February 19, 2025
Method Infinite: Freemasonry and the Mormon Restoration by Adam S. Miller is a thought-provoking and insightful work that explores the relationship between Freemasonry and the early development of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church), particularly through the lens of Joseph Smith’s theological innovations. The book delves into how elements of Freemasonry influenced the Mormon Restoration, particularly in terms of rituals, symbols, and organizational structures, providing a unique perspective on the intersections between these two religious and fraternal movements.
Miller, a prominent scholar of Mormonism, approaches the subject with a deep understanding of both Freemasonry and the LDS tradition. Rather than simply drawing parallels or tracing direct influences, Method Infinite examines the complex ways in which Freemasonry shaped the early development of Mormon thought and practice while also recognizing the distinctiveness of the Mormon Restoration. Miller’s thesis is that while the Mormon restorationist movement shared some ritualistic and symbolic elements with Freemasonry, it was much more than a mere borrowing or imitation; it represented an unfolding of a new theological and spiritual method that transcended these borrowed symbols.
One of the strengths of Method Infinite is Miller’s nuanced approach to the topic. He does not present Freemasonry as a mere precursor to Mormonism or reduce the Mormon movement to its Masonic influences. Instead, Miller emphasizes that Joseph Smith’s restoration of priesthood authority, his visionary theology, and the institutional developments of the LDS Church were, in his view, a creative and original response to broader cultural and religious currents of the time. Freemasonry, as part of this environment, played an important role, but the ultimate vision Smith articulated was far beyond any single influence or tradition.
The book is structured to engage with key elements of Freemasonry, such as its rituals, symbols, and philosophies, and to show how these intersected with, and at times resonated within, Mormon theology and practice. For example, Miller explores the shared themes of personal transformation, secret knowledge, and ritual initiation present in both Freemasonry and Mormonism. The initiation rituals in both movements, which involve an individual’s progression through various stages of spiritual development, form an important area of comparison. Miller looks at the parallels between the temple rituals in Mormonism and Masonic rites, considering how both systems use symbolic gestures and secret teachings to communicate deeper truths and spiritual power.
What sets Method Infinite apart from other works that address the relationship between Mormonism and Freemasonry is its philosophical and theological approach. Miller argues that the Mormon restoration was not just a simple replication of Masonic practices but rather a transformative reworking of them. He explores how the Mormon movement developed a distinct theological framework, especially with the concept of eternal progression, the nature of God, and the focus on personal salvation and exaltation. This theological shift is presented as a radical departure from the traditional aims of Freemasonry, which were largely focused on personal morality and social fellowship rather than a divine restoration of the gospel.
Miller’s writing is both scholarly and accessible. While the book is academically rigorous, it is not overly technical and is approachable for readers who may not have an extensive background in Freemasonry or LDS theology. He is careful to explain key concepts in both Freemasonry and Mormonism, making the book suitable for a general audience, particularly those with an interest in the historical and intellectual development of the LDS Church.
The book also invites readers to consider the broader implications of how religious movements interact with and are shaped by their cultural and historical contexts. By focusing on Freemasonry as a cultural and social phenomenon that coexisted with the early days of the Mormon Church, Miller offers important insights into how religious systems emerge, adapt, and transform in response to the surrounding environment. His analysis opens the door to understanding Mormonism not as an isolated faith but as a movement that was engaged in a dynamic process of theological and social construction, borrowing from various sources while also innovating and asserting its unique vision.
However, one potential drawback of the book is that it may not fully satisfy those looking for more straightforward historical or biographical answers. Miller’s focus is on the deeper philosophical and symbolic relationships between Freemasonry and Mormonism, which means that some readers may find it less focused on concrete historical events or individuals involved in these movements. For those interested in a more conventional historical treatment of Mormonism’s relationship with Freemasonry, this book may seem more abstract.
In conclusion, Method Infinite: Freemasonry and the Mormon Restoration is a compelling and intellectually engaging exploration of the connections between Freemasonry and Mormonism. Adam S. Miller successfully bridges these two traditions through a thoughtful analysis that is both academically robust and accessible to general readers. The book is an excellent resource for those interested in the deeper symbolic and theological intersections between these movements, offering new insights into the development of Mormon theology and the cultural forces that shaped the early LDS Church. It’s a must-read for scholars of religion, students of Mormonism, and anyone interested in the fascinating ways religious movements evolve and interact with their surrounding cultural contexts.
Miller, a prominent scholar of Mormonism, approaches the subject with a deep understanding of both Freemasonry and the LDS tradition. Rather than simply drawing parallels or tracing direct influences, Method Infinite examines the complex ways in which Freemasonry shaped the early development of Mormon thought and practice while also recognizing the distinctiveness of the Mormon Restoration. Miller’s thesis is that while the Mormon restorationist movement shared some ritualistic and symbolic elements with Freemasonry, it was much more than a mere borrowing or imitation; it represented an unfolding of a new theological and spiritual method that transcended these borrowed symbols.
One of the strengths of Method Infinite is Miller’s nuanced approach to the topic. He does not present Freemasonry as a mere precursor to Mormonism or reduce the Mormon movement to its Masonic influences. Instead, Miller emphasizes that Joseph Smith’s restoration of priesthood authority, his visionary theology, and the institutional developments of the LDS Church were, in his view, a creative and original response to broader cultural and religious currents of the time. Freemasonry, as part of this environment, played an important role, but the ultimate vision Smith articulated was far beyond any single influence or tradition.
The book is structured to engage with key elements of Freemasonry, such as its rituals, symbols, and philosophies, and to show how these intersected with, and at times resonated within, Mormon theology and practice. For example, Miller explores the shared themes of personal transformation, secret knowledge, and ritual initiation present in both Freemasonry and Mormonism. The initiation rituals in both movements, which involve an individual’s progression through various stages of spiritual development, form an important area of comparison. Miller looks at the parallels between the temple rituals in Mormonism and Masonic rites, considering how both systems use symbolic gestures and secret teachings to communicate deeper truths and spiritual power.
What sets Method Infinite apart from other works that address the relationship between Mormonism and Freemasonry is its philosophical and theological approach. Miller argues that the Mormon restoration was not just a simple replication of Masonic practices but rather a transformative reworking of them. He explores how the Mormon movement developed a distinct theological framework, especially with the concept of eternal progression, the nature of God, and the focus on personal salvation and exaltation. This theological shift is presented as a radical departure from the traditional aims of Freemasonry, which were largely focused on personal morality and social fellowship rather than a divine restoration of the gospel.
Miller’s writing is both scholarly and accessible. While the book is academically rigorous, it is not overly technical and is approachable for readers who may not have an extensive background in Freemasonry or LDS theology. He is careful to explain key concepts in both Freemasonry and Mormonism, making the book suitable for a general audience, particularly those with an interest in the historical and intellectual development of the LDS Church.
The book also invites readers to consider the broader implications of how religious movements interact with and are shaped by their cultural and historical contexts. By focusing on Freemasonry as a cultural and social phenomenon that coexisted with the early days of the Mormon Church, Miller offers important insights into how religious systems emerge, adapt, and transform in response to the surrounding environment. His analysis opens the door to understanding Mormonism not as an isolated faith but as a movement that was engaged in a dynamic process of theological and social construction, borrowing from various sources while also innovating and asserting its unique vision.
However, one potential drawback of the book is that it may not fully satisfy those looking for more straightforward historical or biographical answers. Miller’s focus is on the deeper philosophical and symbolic relationships between Freemasonry and Mormonism, which means that some readers may find it less focused on concrete historical events or individuals involved in these movements. For those interested in a more conventional historical treatment of Mormonism’s relationship with Freemasonry, this book may seem more abstract.
In conclusion, Method Infinite: Freemasonry and the Mormon Restoration is a compelling and intellectually engaging exploration of the connections between Freemasonry and Mormonism. Adam S. Miller successfully bridges these two traditions through a thoughtful analysis that is both academically robust and accessible to general readers. The book is an excellent resource for those interested in the deeper symbolic and theological intersections between these movements, offering new insights into the development of Mormon theology and the cultural forces that shaped the early LDS Church. It’s a must-read for scholars of religion, students of Mormonism, and anyone interested in the fascinating ways religious movements evolve and interact with their surrounding cultural contexts.
April 22, 2024
Overall, a very good work of scholarship on the parallels between so-called Mormonism and Freemasonry.
As many of the other reviewers have noted, there are some stretches in here where they try to tie ancient legend to aspects of Joseph Smith’s life, but I find those more interesting than disturbing.
They do treat the subject with the respect it deserves, and I found myself fascinated in the aspects of Freemasonry that were (and are) quite honorable. I enjoyed learning more about Freemasonry than I had known previously and I thought the topic was researched thoroughly by the authors.
Scholarly yet readable, which is all I can ask for in a subject like this.
As many of the other reviewers have noted, there are some stretches in here where they try to tie ancient legend to aspects of Joseph Smith’s life, but I find those more interesting than disturbing.
They do treat the subject with the respect it deserves, and I found myself fascinated in the aspects of Freemasonry that were (and are) quite honorable. I enjoyed learning more about Freemasonry than I had known previously and I thought the topic was researched thoroughly by the authors.
Scholarly yet readable, which is all I can ask for in a subject like this.
September 3, 2025
This book explores the relationship between the founders of the Church of Latter Day Saints (Mormons) and the Masons. This book interested me for a couple reasons: my father, uncles and paternal grandfathers were all Masons. My paternal grandmother (Juanita LaVaun Smith) was a descendant of Lot Smith and one of his wives. The ancestor of my grandmother left Lot Smith and the church because she didn't approve of his multiple wives (8 to be exact). I have several Mormon cousins on my maternal side.
The book is highly researched and detailed about how being a Mason influenced Joseph Smith's design of rituals for the Mormon Church. It is highly footnoted and has a 38 page bibliography. I often got bogged down in details while reading it. At times the Masons and the Mormons were at odds, but had more in common than differences. In the last chapter, the authors decried that the church moved away from the Masonic roots once they moved to Utah. Indeed, Joseph Smith viewed the church as based in Masonic tradition, but was there to perfect their messages..
That said, I learned a lot from the book. Joseph Smith had visions starting in his mid-teens. The church had a presence in New York, Illinois, Iowa, and Missouri-not just Utah. I learned that Joseph Smith was set to run for president, wanting to establish a democracy ruled by religious principles. I had only a vague sense of why Joseph Smith was not in Utah, not realizing he had been assassinated. My most precious takeaway is that the Mormon practice of taking care of those in need came from the charitable practice of the Masons.
The book is highly researched and detailed about how being a Mason influenced Joseph Smith's design of rituals for the Mormon Church. It is highly footnoted and has a 38 page bibliography. I often got bogged down in details while reading it. At times the Masons and the Mormons were at odds, but had more in common than differences. In the last chapter, the authors decried that the church moved away from the Masonic roots once they moved to Utah. Indeed, Joseph Smith viewed the church as based in Masonic tradition, but was there to perfect their messages..
That said, I learned a lot from the book. Joseph Smith had visions starting in his mid-teens. The church had a presence in New York, Illinois, Iowa, and Missouri-not just Utah. I learned that Joseph Smith was set to run for president, wanting to establish a democracy ruled by religious principles. I had only a vague sense of why Joseph Smith was not in Utah, not realizing he had been assassinated. My most precious takeaway is that the Mormon practice of taking care of those in need came from the charitable practice of the Masons.
January 14, 2025
Every element of Joseph Smith’s history is placed in a Masonic context. Though some of the connections are weaker, it’s an instructive exercise in reading history with a strictly Masonic lens
The concept of restoring the true Masonic rite was very interesting. To think of the existence of both a “spurious” and true masonry was compelling.
The authors portrayed Joseph throughout as the fulfillment of Masonry. Not only a participant but that actual end of Masonry—Joseph as one greater than Solomon.
Most enlightening and surprising to me was just how relevant William Morgan’s frightful tale of encountering the dark side of Masonry was to the restoration.
The concept of restoring the true Masonic rite was very interesting. To think of the existence of both a “spurious” and true masonry was compelling.
The authors portrayed Joseph throughout as the fulfillment of Masonry. Not only a participant but that actual end of Masonry—Joseph as one greater than Solomon.
Most enlightening and surprising to me was just how relevant William Morgan’s frightful tale of encountering the dark side of Masonry was to the restoration.
August 1, 2023
I can’t review based on wether the authors presented fact or fiction. I just don’t know enough about the subject. I will say that I felt awful while reading the book, and if I can’t validate all the info contained therein, I can trust my feelings. Well written but made me feel miserable.
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