Council Knights Kadosh

The Council of Kadosh is the third of the four coordinate bodies within the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, Southern Jurisdiction. It encompasses the degrees from the 19th to the 30th, collectively known as the “Philosophical and Chivalric Degrees.”

The degrees conferred within the Council of Kadosh include:

• 19th Degree: Grand Pontiff

• 20th Degree: Master of the Symbolic Lodge

• 21st Degree: Noachite or Prussian Knight

• 22nd Degree: Knight of the Royal Axe or Prince of Libanus

• 23rd Degree: Chief of the Tabernacle

• 24th Degree: Prince of the Tabernacle

• 25th Degree: Knight of the Brazen Serpent

• 26th Degree: Prince of Mercy

• 27th Degree: Knight Commander of the Temple

• 28th Degree: Knight of the Sun or Prince Adept

• 29th Degree: Scottish Knight of Saint Andrew

• 30th Degree: Knight Kadosh

  
  

These degrees focus on the exploration of moral and ethical philosophy, chivalric principles, and the deeper meanings of Masonic teachings. They draw from a variety of historical, religious, and philosophical traditions, emphasizing the values of justice, honor, duty, and the pursuit of knowledge.

The term “Kadosh” means “holy” or “consecrated” in Hebrew, reflecting the degrees’ emphasis on spiritual and moral sanctification. The degrees in the Council of Kadosh challenge members to reflect on their inner selves, cultivate virtuous character traits, and strive for higher ideals in their personal and professional lives.

The 30th Degree, Knight Kadosh, is particularly significant, often seen as a culmination of the lessons learned in the preceding degrees. It represents a knightly quest for spiritual and moral excellence, urging members to defend truth and justice.

The Council of Kadosh aims to deepen a Mason’s understanding of their duties to themselves, their fellow man, and the divine. Its teachings encourage members to live lives of integrity, service, and enlightenment, contributing positively to society and upholding the noble principles of Freemasonry.