What is referred to as hidden mysteries of nature and science

The "hidden mysteries of nature and science" refer to the interior, psychological investigation prescribed in the Fellowcraft Degree, directing the Mason toward self-knowledge and the study of human nature as a path to comprehending the Divine.

In Masonic ceremonial, the phrase forms part of the candidate's examination prior to being raised to the Master Mason Degree 2. Wilmshurst reads "nature" in this context as human psychological nature, and "science" as the gnosis or discipline of self-knowledge 1. This phase of the Mason's work requires turning the consciousness inward to conduct a psychological self-analysis, probing the potentialities of the human organism to perceive the ultimate principles of intellectual and spiritual truth 1. Because this investigation carries mental peril if attempted without proper preparation, it is permitted only after completing the moral purifications and emotional self-control associated with the Entered Apprentice stage 1.

Waite similarly views these hidden mysteries as part of an ancient spiritual science that extends far beyond elementary social good conduct 2. In this view, natural philosophy acts as a porchway to Divine Wisdom: by analyzing human nature and measuring the capacities of the soul, the seeker discovers the Divine Principle established at the center of human nature 1.