Cracking the Freemason's Code: The Truth about Soloman's Key and the Brotherhood

by Robert L.D. Cooper

In Cracking the Freemason's Code, Robert Cooper explains exactly who the Freemasons are and what they do. As the Curator of the Scottish Masonic Museum and Library, the author is in a unique position to reveal the secret history of this elect brotherhood. Prompted by growing public interest and provoked by the controversial stories that circulate about Freemasonry, this is the first time that he has chosen to do so. Cracking the Freemason's Code is written with an insider's knowledge and privileged access to archive material, including never-before published images. It lays bare the intriguing symbolism, beliefs and history of the Masons, and explains the structure of Freemasonry, its ethos and connections to other secret societies. It also discloses the identities of famous Masons and the locations of important Masonic sites. This is the book that answers once and for all any questions readers may have about what Freemasonry is and the role it has played in shaping our society.

Genres: History, Nonfiction

240 pages, Paperback

First published October 5, 2006

Reviews

[Christian D · Rating 3 out of 5]

I think this is a valuable read for new Freemasons to get grounded with some basic history and perspective on the Craft, including a reasonably academic perspective and skepticism regarding some of the far-fetched yet widely accepted origin theories of Freemasonry. Non-Masons might find this a little dry, unless very interested in the subject. (Other introductory books are better for a general overview for non-Masons.)

An examination of some very early ritual is interesting. The discussion of symbolism is basic, but still offers an interesting glimpse into Scottish and English symbols, some of which differ from those found American Masonry.

The writing is sometimes repetitive.

The chapter on the Free Gardeners is interesting but seems out of place.

The numerous citations are appreciated, and give the work more credence.

Overall - I’ll be recommending this book to new Masons to get an academic introduction to early Masonic history and gain perspective on the various origin theories.

[Yamato · Rating 2 out of 5]

Took me a long time to read through this book.
To be honest, I powered through most of it.

I started out interested in the topic as a follow up to the Da Vinci code which i read many years ago.

some of signs and symbols (the all seeing eye, the compass and square, the 5-point star) origins wefe covered along with influential members (George Washington).

i became uninterested in the topic, unfortunately, which is why i am rating it low.

[Codex · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book provides an informed overview of Freemasonry from the historical as well as symbolic and allegorical perspectives. Although the historical treatment may perhaps be too detailed for the average reader in places, it appears at least to be well-researched.

The underlying principles that ultimately drive the set of guidelines at the heart of the code are explained gradually in an open and straightforward manner. This will enable the reader to see how superficial misconceptions can arise and facilitates a better understanding of what Freemasonry is really about.

I find the title interestingly paradoxical because it delivers on its promise—and yet may appear not to.

[David · Rating 5 out of 5]

A closer examination of the relationship between Scottish history and the Craft with an interesting and probably correct disputation against the Sinclair family's claim of involvement in the early history of the Craft. Also, a very interesting chapter on Free Gardnery, about which I knew nothing until reading this.