Encyclopedia Masonica

The following is an extract from Mackenzie's Royal Masonic Cyclopaedia upon this subject: With infinite learning and patience the author of The Book of God, who preserves strict anonymity, has endeavored to show that the work, Apocalypse, was originally revealed to a primaeval John, otherwise Cannes and identical with the first messenger of God to man;. This theory is sufficiently remarkable to be mentioned here. The messengers, twelve in number, are supposed by the author to appear at intervals of years. Thus: 1, Adam, 3000 A. M. 2, Enoch, 3600 A.M. 3, Fohi, 4200 A. M. 4, Brigoo, 4800 A. M.5, Zaratusht 5400 A. M. 6, Thoth, 6000 is A. M. 7, Amosis or Moses 6600 A. M. 8, Laotseu, 7200 A. M. 9, Jesus, 7800 A..M. 10, Mohammed, 8400 A. M. l l, Chengiz-Khan A.9000 A. M., and 12, the twelfth messenger yet to be revealed, 9600 A. M.

With the aid of this theory, the whole history of the world, down to our own days, is shown to be foretold in the Apocalypse, and although it is difficult to agree with the accomplished writer's conclusions, supported by him with an array of learning and a sincere belief in what is stated, no one with any taste for these studies should be without this wonderful series of books. The same author has published, in two volumes, a revised edition of the Book of Enoch, with a commentary, and he promises to continue, and, if possible, complete his design.

The Encyclopedia Masonica exists to preserve the wealth of information that has been generated over the centuries by numerous Masonic authors. As Freemasonry is now Speculative and not Operative, the work of a Mason is now conducted in the quarries of symbolism, literature, history and scholasticism. Freemasonry encourages intellectual exploration and academic achievement in its members and many Masons over the years have taken up this calling. The result has been that an incredible amount of philosophy, symbolic speculation and academic insights have been created. However, as Freemasonry teaches, human knowledge is frail and fragile. It is easily lost in the turnings of the ages and unforeseen catastrophes can result in great setbacks to human knowledge.

For too long these great works have sat on forgotten shelves, gathering dust and concealing the light that could be shed on the darkness of our ignorance. The Encyclopedia Masonica has been created to act as an ark, sailing through time, to ensure that future generations of Freemasons have access to the same knowledge that inspired the Brethren that came before them. It will contain the works of such Masonic Luminaries as Albert G. Mackey, Manly Palmer Hall, G.S.M. Ward, Albert Pike and many others. The Encyclopedia Masonica is a living work and the volunteers of Universal Co-Masonry will continue to labor until the most comprehensive Masonic reference work the world has ever seen has been created. The Encyclopedia Masonica is open to any who wish to use it and will remain open so that the treasures contained within may increase the wealth of all those who seek its wisdom.