This
degree description is courtesy of the Valley of Guthrie, Orient of
Oklahoma.
Thirtieth Degree
Knight
Kadosh
This is the last of
the philosophical degrees. To spread the sciences, to apply the
virtues, to learn the sublime doctrines which enable humanity to live
as one great family-this is the school of which Masonry is engaged.
It is not within the realm of Masonry to punish oppressors
and tyrants who enact barriers to brotherly love and affection.
They are always punished in the course of history.
It is our goal to defeat the passions and fanaticism which
lead to oppression by spreading love and toleration. The
Knight Kadosh is aware of his obligations. He is just,
equitable, and respectful of all ideas. He battles for
freedom of conscience. He opposes those who would attack
these liberties,
but material revenge is not in his thoughts and philosophy.
He is a lover of great example.
Jim Tresner
is Director of the Masonic Leadership Institute and Editor of The
Oklahoma Mason. A frequent contributor to the Scottish Rite Journal and
its book review editor, Illustrious Brother Tresner is also a volunteer
writer for The Oklahoma Scottish Rite Mason and a video script
consultant for the National Masonic Renewal Committee. He is the
Director of the Thirty-third Degree Conferral Team and Director of Work
at the Guthrie Scottish Rite Temple in Guthrie, Oklahoma, as well as a
life member of the Scottish Rite Research Society, author of the
popular anecdotal biography Albert Pike, The Man Beyond the Monument,
and a member of the steering committee of the Masonic Information
Center. Ill. Tresner was awarded the Grand Cross, the Scottish Rite's
highest honor, during the Supreme Council's October 1997 Biennial
Session.
