How do the teachings of the Craft degrees compare to those of the Royal Arch?
The teachings of the Craft degrees (Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft, and Master Mason) serve as the foundational principles of Freemasonry, focusing on moral instruction and character development. They introduce essential values such as brotherly love, relief, and truth, often conveyed through allegorical representations of building and labor.
In contrast, the Royal Arch degree is viewed as the completion of pure, ancient Masonry, building upon the foundations laid by the Craft degrees. It delves deeper into the spiritual and philosophical dimensions of Freemasonry, emphasizing the discovery and restoration of lost knowledge. As noted in various Masonic texts, the Royal Arch reveals truths that are hinted at in the Craft degrees, offering a more profound understanding of the Great Architect of the Universe and the divine principles governing existence. It is often regarded as the pinnacle of symbolic Masonry, leading the candidate to a fuller appreciation of the divine name and the spiritual journey.
In summary, while the Craft degrees lay the groundwork for Masonic teachings, the Royal Arch expands upon these teachings, providing deeper insights into the spiritual aspects of Freemasonry.