To understand your questions, you need only understand allegory. Take the allegory of the cave by Plato…the actual characters in the allegory are not what is important. It is a story used to explain certain things and convey a message. Masonic ritual is based on an allegory of such a nature. That allegory includes some figures known to have lived, and others who may or may not have existed. Some Masonic authors such as Knight and Lomas would suggest that Hiram Abif DID exist, while others are convinced he is fictional. Regardless of whether Hiram Abif existed or not, the allegory stands as a story meant to teach.
Yes, I think that Bro. Madore’s explination is pretty good. It doesn’t matter if Hiram Abiff was a real historical figure or not - what’s important is the ritual and teaching surrounding him. In another thread post I used the example of Hiram Abiff being an archetypal “Hero” character within the scope of Joseph Campbell’s journey of a hero. I’m fascinated by these kinds of characters and that’s what is interesting to me about Hiram Abiff. Was Beowulf a real person? Who cares. Was Hercules a real person? Who cares. What’s important is what they represent; the trials they overcome, the boon that they return to their community.
Trust me, the Third Degree is not “bogus”. It’s very profound - if you have the eyes to see it.
