A high-ranking Mason offers a fascinating glimpse into the Western worlds most secreti!e society. Manly P. Hall" a scholar of occult and esoteric ideas" traces the path followed by initiates to the ancient craft. Hall also recounts the ethical training re#uired of a $reemason" and he profiles the character traits a Mason must %build% within himself. More than a mere social organi&ation a few centuries old" $reemasonry can be regarded as a perpetuation of the philosophical mysteries and initiations of the ancients. 'his book re!eals the uni#ue and distincti!e elements that ha!e inspired generations of Masons. 'houghtful members of the craft" as well as outsiders" will appreciate its e(ploration of Masonic idealism and the eternal #uest" from humble candidate to entered apprentice and master Mason. Manly P. Hall ()*+)-)**+) founded the Philosophical ,esearch -ociety in )*./" a non-profit organi&ation dedicated to the dissemination of useful knowledge in the fields of philosophy" comparati!e religion and psychology. 0n his long career" spanning more than 1+ years of dynamic public acti!ity" Mr. Hall deli!ered o!er 2+++ lectures in the 3nited -tates and abroad" authored o!er )4+ books and essays" and wrote countless maga&ine articles.