Great Question and thanks to W.Bro Mike M. for getting the ball rolling.
The York Rite might be considered an extension of the first three degrees of the Process to become a Master Mason. Some jurisdictions, worldwide, add the 4th degree of Mark Master Mason to the Masonic process of earning the Master Mason degree.
In the USA the next four degrees are separate and contained within the first body of The York Rite: Chapter. The next three degrees continue in the next body, Council. And, one may then continue on to the last body of The York Rite, Commandery, that completes with the Knights Templar degrees. The understanding of these degree emulates from the Hebrew ( aka, Old) Testament and proceeds into the New Testament. The lessons given in the degrees may build on the allegories of the Entered Apprentice to the Master Mason degrees. When completed, the Companion/ Sir Knight will have knowledge and vision and further purpose.
Although there is no higher degree than that of a Master Mason, the 29 degrees of the Scottish Rite serve to enrich the philosophy of the Symbolic Lodge. A Mason who chooses to further his Masonic experience by becoming a 32° Scottish Rite Mason will be expanding upon the fundamental principles of Freemasonry.
In the Scottish Rite, you will indeed find an untold wealth of knowledge. It will teach you more about Masonry. It will answer some of the questions raised in the Blue Lodge degrees. It is a sort of “graduate course” in Masonic teachings. In fact, it aids, supplements and reinforces the Blue Lodge in every way. As organizations, these Bodies are mutually dependent because they strengthen each other. The Rite is broken into 4 bodies, and in the USA the Geographic regions are divided into areas known as valleys.
A last Degree in this order is the 33rd and is awarded for merit and service.
Many men have chosen to attain all of the above.
Ronald Doucette - Forum Moderator
