Memento Mori
Is anyone aware of any EA lectures or writings on this topic? I'm aware that it mostly comes into play for the raising. In speaking with some members of the French lodge, that practice Scottish rite, there was mention of a lecture in the EA degree. Wondering if we in the English constitution have anything similar. If not a lecture, some books or papers would be welcome reading.
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@Steve Nunez Strictly speaking, the formal theme of Memento Mori “remember you must die” does not explicitly appear in the core EA ritual of the English Constitution as it does in the Master Mason (MM) degree. However, the concept is implicitly present, and there are symbolic echoes that can be interpreted through deeper esoteric or contemplative reflection. While the phrase “Memento Mori” is not spoken, the EA degree introduces mortality by symbolic absence, foreshadowing the more explicit treatment in the MM degree.
The Preparation of the Candidate
The candidate’s state during initiation, deprived of metallic substances and hoodwinked; symbolises a symbolic death or detachment from the profane world. This can be interpreted as the “death” of the uninitiated self. It is the first threshold toward an enlightened awareness, and in some esoteric readings, a metaphorical death to the outer world and rebirth into the spiritual path.
The Charge After Initiation
Although largely ethical and social in tone, the Charge does remind the candidate to lead a virtuous life. In light of the impermanence of life, this can be seen as a veiled reminder of mortality. It reflects classical Masonic moral instruction about “acting upon the square,” a phrase that implies a consciousness of one’s legacy.
Tracing Board and Symbolism
The First Degree Tracing Board often contains visual elements (especially in older or elaborated lectures) that indirectly suggest life’s journey from darkness to light. The checkered pavement, symbolizing the dualities of existence—joy and sorrow, life and death—is a subtle allusion to mortality.
Scottish Rite or French Observance
You mentioned your discussion with French brethren practicing the Scottish Rite. Indeed, Continental and Scottish Rite workings; especially the Rite Français Moderne and the Rectified Scottish Rite; tend to feature a more direct treatment of mortality in the EA degree. Some of these include symbolic references to skulls, coffins, or actual mention of Memento Mori in catechismal or chamber of reflection contexts. (Read more about `The Chamber of Reflection` here: https://www.thesquaremagazine.com/mag/article/202103the-chamber-of-reflection/ ) If you're looking for UGLE-aligned writings that explore this concept, I'd recommend:
“The Symbolism of the Three Degrees” by W. L. Wilmshurst – Wilmshurst touches upon the death symbolism latent in all Masonic work, and even in the EA degree he speaks of "the death of the lower self."
“Contemplative Masonry” by C.R. Dunning Jr. – While American, Dunning offers practices that are highly relevant for UGLE Masons, including meditations on mortality and the self.
“The Craft and Its Symbols” by Allen E. Roberts – Excellent for visual symbolism and interpretations, including those adjacent to Memento Mori.