YORK RITE Meaning and
Definition
-
York Rite is a term used to refer to a collection of Masonic degrees that are conferred by Masonic lodges and are primarily practiced in the United States. It is named after the city of York in England, which is believed to be one of the oldest centers of Masonic activity. The York Rite consists of three distinct bodies or divisions, namely the Symbolic Lodge, the Chapter of Royal Arch Masons, and the Commandery of Knights Templar.
The Symbolic Lodge belongs to the first division and confers the three basic degrees of Freemasonry: the Entered Apprentice, Fellowcraft, and Master Mason degrees. This is the foundation upon which further degrees and orders are built in the York Rite system.
The Royal Arch Masons, which is the second division, consists of four additional degrees: Mark Master Mason, Past Master, Most Excellent Master, and Royal Arch Mason. These degrees further expand the knowledge and teachings of the Craft.
The third division, Knights Templar, completes the York Rite. This body confers three additional degrees: the Order of the Red Cross, the Order of Malta, and the Order of the Temple. These degrees are connected to the history of the medieval Knights Templar and focus on themes of chivalry, courage, and spiritual devotion.
Overall, the York Rite is a system of Masonic degrees that build upon the foundation laid by the Symbolic Lodge, providing further insights, teachings, and moral lessons to Freemasons who seek to deepen their understanding of the Craft and its principles.
Common Misspellings for YORK RITE
- tork rite
- gork rite
- hork rite
- uork rite
- 7ork rite
- 6ork rite
- yirk rite
- ykrk rite
- ylrk rite
- yprk rite
- y0rk rite
- y9rk rite
- yoek rite
- yodk rite
- yofk rite
- yotk rite
- yo5k rite
- yo4k rite
- yorj rite
- yorm rite
Etymology of YORK RITE
The word "York Rite" is believed to have originated from the city of York in England. The term "Rite" indicates a ceremonial or ritualistic tradition, particularly in Freemasonry. It is called the York Rite because the ceremonies, degrees, and rituals associated with it are said to have been practiced in the city of York during the medieval era. Some historical Masonic records suggest that the York Rite may have been transferred to North America by Thomas Dunckerley, a prominent Mason who claimed to have been made a Mason in York. However, the exact etymology and historical origins of the term are not definitively known.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
