From the Venerable Master (July 2026) Do you know the word Shibboleth? Do you know what it means? The word "Shibboleth", (in Hebrew: Sihlet-Shabioth) was used in ancient times to distinguish friend from foe. It is the pronunciation and interpretation of the test word used by the troops of Jephthah to distinguish the Ephraimites after the battle on the banks of the Jordan. The word comes from the Hebrew Bible (Book of Judges). When the Gileadites were at war with the Ephraimites, they used the...

From the Venerable Master (June 2026) Rough and Perfect Ashlars Rough and Perfect Ashlars are stones that serve to symbolize a man’s spiritual and moral life. It is not easy to cut stones into perfect sizes and shapes. It requires experience, patience, discipline, and the skill of true craftsmen. In history, only large buildings were commonly made of ashlars. Other buildings were often built with brick and wood. It was difficult to assemble skilled craftsmen who knew how to lay foundation...

From the Venerable Master (May 2026) Royal Influence on the Swedish Rite The Swedish Rite boasts a unique and enduring historical connection with the Swedish Monarchy, a relationship that has significantly shaped its identity and prestige. A. Historical Connection with the Swedish Monarchy Duke Carl, who later became King Charles XIII and reigned from 1809 to 1818, played a crucial role in finalizing the structure and rituals of the Swedish Rite. Even prior to his ascension to the throne, his...