They were in the ancient English lectures, used in the ritual from 1738 till 1813, when they were taken out, and the four perfect points, substituted. They constituted the basis of the system, and without which no man ever was or can be legally and essentially received into the Order. Every candidate must pass through these forms and ceremonies. The are — opening, preparation, report, entrance, prayer, circumambulation, advancing, obligation, entrusting, investiture, placing in the northeast corner and closing. These points were symbolized by each one of the twelve tribes of Israel, the sons of Jacob. — ( Genesis 49:1-2 )
Biblical Reference
Genesis 49:1-3
1 And Jacob called unto his sons, and said, Gather yourselves together, that I may tell you that which shall befall you in the last days.
2 Gather yourselves together, and hear, ye sons of Jacob; and hearken unto Israel your father.
~~ooOoo~~
This page is adapted from the Glossary at Phoenixmasonry — Used with permission.
