MORALS and DOGMA by ALBERT PIKE

Morals and Dogma is a book of esoteric philosophy published by the Supreme Council, Thirty Third Degree, of the Scottish Rite, Southern Jurisdiction of the United States1. It was compiled by Albert Pike and was first published in 187112. The book consists of 32 essays that provide a philosophical rationale for the degrees of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite3. Although it discusses the minutiae of Masonic ritual at length, it is written so as not to reveal the Masonic secrets3. Pike's original preface was clear that any Mason could own the book, but only Scottish Rite Masons would be encouraged to own one3. While many consider it to be a Mason's guide for daily living, the truth is that not many Masons have even read the book, on account of it being somewhat difficult to understand2.