The Arcana of Freemasonry - Albert Churchward

This superb investigation explains the myriad connections between ancient signs and symbols of Egypt, Mesoamerica, and the Near East with freemasonry.

As a scholar of antiquity and a freemason, Albert Churchward sought to identify and explain the significance of the various insignia and motifs used by Masonic lodges. His investigations into civilizations of old uncovered a great many connections between the various signs displayed by Masons in the lodges and those drawn by ancient scribes and literati, and built by ancient stonemasons, crafters and bricklayers. Even items of dress worn during ceremonial events such as inductions to the order are identified as having resemblance to attire worn in ancient Egypt.

So numerous are the resemblances, that the author takes to narrating the very origins of Freemasonry, explaining how early Masons took inspiration from the ancients. Towards the end of this narration, we find numerous shapes and patterns commonly used in the design of ancient temples, burial sites and other buildings, and the decorative elements of larger Masonic lodges. In all, Churchward's enquiry uncovers the origins of many obscure and arcane aspects of Freemasonic tradition, laying bare much for the interested reader.