Uncover the fascinating truth behind Freemasonry and incorporate symbolic rituals into your life with this remarkably detailed and comprehensive insider's guide. Jean-Louis de Biasi, a 32nd Degree Freemason who's been involved in the order for over twenty years, offers a candid look at the essential aspects of Freemasonry. Basing his work on original texts and archaeological findings, de Biasi details the Masonic tradition's history, the degree-based system of the Scottish Rite, and their ethical teachings and philosophies. He provides evidence of Freemasonry's origination in the Ancient Western Mysteries and its Hermetic and Qabalistic underpinnings, and then traces how the Founding Fathers used this knowledge to embed sacred symbolism into the U.S. Capitol and throughout Washington, DC. From the power-charged grids within architecture to Albert Pike's highly influential teachings, from the Rose-Cross mysteries to the Masonic themes in Dan Brown's popular books, Secrets and Practices of the Freemasonsshines a revelatory light on this captivating subject. Also featured: genuine Masonic meditations and individual rituals with easy-to-follow instructions, plus interviews with scientists who lend their perspectives on Freemasonry as it is viewed and practiced today.