Freemasonry and the Ancient Gods

By J.S.M. Ward

Book Overview

"Freemasonry and the Ancient Gods" is a comprehensive and provocative study that explores the esoteric roots of Masonic ritual and symbolism through the lens of comparative religion and anthropology. J.S.M. Ward, a noted authority on the craft, argues that the ceremonies of modern Freemasonry are not merely Enlightenment-era inventions but are direct descendants of the ancient mysteries practiced by civilizations across the globe.

By examining the customs of the ancient Egyptians, the secret traditions of India, and the ritualistic practices of indigenous cultures, Ward identifies profound parallels that suggest a universal, primordial origin for the craft. The work delves into the significance of the "Ancient Gods" and how their myths continue to resonate within the signs, tokens, and legends of the Masonic degrees. This book serves as an essential resource for those interested in the historical development of secret societies, the hidden meanings of Masonic architecture, and the intersection of spirituality and tradition.

Whether reading as a dedicated Mason or a student of history, "Freemasonry and the Ancient Gods" provides a fascinating journey into the past, offering a scholarly yet accessible investigation into the symbols that have shaped human belief for millennia.

This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work was reproduced from the original artifact, and remains as true to the original work as possible. Therefore, you may see the original copyright references, library stamps (as most of these works have been housed in our most important libraries around the world), and other notations in the work.

This work is in the public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.

As a reproduction of a historical artifact, this work may contain missing or blurred pages, poor pictures, errant marks, etc. Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1025668960
• ISBN13: 9781025668963
• Release Date: February 2026
• Publisher: Tradd Street Press
• Length: 540 Pages
• Weight: 1.65 lbs.
• Dimensions: 9.2" x 1.1" x 6.1"

Customer Reviews

Unique and Informative

This book traces the ancient roots of Freemasonry through the ages. It is awesome in it's depth. A truly fascinating history of Freemasonry from a very different perspective.

Insightful and thought provoking

This book demonstrates Bro. Ward's belief that the roots of Freemasonry are thousands of years old. In this book (which he never intended to be released to non-masons) he shows that many signs, symbols and rituals are similar through non-connected cultures around the globe over the ages. This is a book that all Freemasons should read and evaluate in their hearts and minds. There is much work to be done.