Every year numerous books are published which treat the symbolism of the three Masonic Degrees. The reader buys them not disguising the fact that he hopes to find out more information about the symbolism of the Craft. He is often deluded because he finds explanations that are simply abstruse or fantastic.
On the contrary, Julian Rees’ book has the fundamental merit of thoroughly maintaining what the title promises: making light.
Metaphorically speaking, the reader is led step by step over the three initiation journeys already experienced.
Every essential moment of the initiation, the passing and finally the raising to Master Mason is accurately dealt with and explained in the book.
Naturally the unveiling of the Masonic symbolism is made in accordance to the esoteric teaching. Therefore a correct but general explanation is given which lets every Brother begin to cover his own personal initiation journey.
In the Bible there is written: “knock and it will be opened, ask and it will be given” but once the door is opened and the explanation of the Masonic symbolism is given, then it is you who has to go towards self-knowledge until symbolically achieve a state of oneness with Divinity. This is the personal obligation that Freemasonry asks.
This book opens “the door”, nay “the doors” and overall provides a timely reminder to all Brethren that Freemasonry is not only a charity or a club but an initiation society with esoteric teachings imparted through symbols and legends.
This book also has another merit: it increases its value in time.
It is not a question of “money”, what I wish to say is very simple and it is also an invitation to the reader: try reading and re-reading the book. Then put it back on the shelf.
After a few months, read the book once again and you will then be happily surprised to discover other "secret" meanings that you had not previously found.
Obviously the text has not changed, it is you who have changed because, thanks also to Julian Rees’ book, your initiation journey has reached another level.
Bruno Virgilio Gazzo
editor, PS Review of FM
