Royal & Select

Eligibility and Overview

The Order of Royal & Select Masters, often referred to as the Cryptic Degrees, is a distinctive branch of Freemasonry open only to those who have already completed both the Mark Master Mason and Holy Royal Arch degrees. In Corby, membership in this order reflects a deeper engagement with Masonic teachings, and access to these degrees marks a significant step in a brother’s journey.

The Order fills the historical and symbolic gap between Craft Freemasonry and the Royal Arch, tying together the story of the building, dedication, and eventual destruction of King Solomon’s Temple. The rituals are rich in symbolism, offering both drama and spiritual insight, and are regarded by many as among the most profound in Freemasonry.

The Four Core Degrees

Select Master

In the early stages of building the Temple, the three Grand Masters—Solomon, Hiram of Tyre, and Hiram Abif—are concerned that sacred knowledge and relics might be lost. To preserve them, they commission a group of Select Masons to construct a hidden vault beneath the Temple. There, exact replicas of the holy vessels and the Ark of the Covenant are secured.

Royal Master

As the Temple nears completion, Overseers begin to seek the Master Word and aspire to be named Royal Masters. One Overseer, Adoniram, is given a powerful lesson in patience by Hiram Abif in what is widely considered one of the most beautiful pieces of Masonic ritual. The Royal Master degree explores themes of fidelity, mortality, and promise.

Most Excellent Master

Following the death of Hiram Abif and a period of mourning, the Temple is finally completed. King Solomon prepares to dedicate it to the Most High. This degree is conferred upon those who have shown exceptional skill and loyalty during the construction, particularly those involved in the creation of the secret vault.

Super Excellent Master

This degree shifts to the fall of Jerusalem. After centuries of glory, the Temple is destroyed by Nebuchadnezzar. The citizens are taken into captivity, and Zedekiah—the puppet king—abandons his people. The story focuses on the final defense of the Temple and the moral steadfastness of those who refused to forsake their faith.

The Silver Trowel – Thrice Illustrious Master

This honorary degree, introduced to England in 2009 and traditionally known as the Order of the Silver Trowel, tells the story of Adonijah’s failed attempt to usurp the throne of Israel. It follows the final days of King David and concludes with the anointing of Solomon as king. A hallmark silver trowel is worn by recipients, marking their elevation to the role of Thrice Illustrious Master. Admission is limited to select Installed Masters, approved annually by the Most Illustrious Grand Master.

Legacy and Presence in Corby

Though the Royal & Select Masters are not part of Craft Freemasonry, they are an integral part of Masonic progression in Corby. Their presence strengthens the link between the Mark and Royal Arch, offering members a deeper and more complete understanding of the Solomonic tradition that underpins so much of Freemasonry.

The order remains active and respected within Corby’s Masonic complex. Membership represents both a milestone and a responsibility—one that connects the spiritual history of the Temple with the personal journey of the Mason.